Former President Barack Obama has been announced as a strategic partner of NBA Africa, helping 'advance the league's social responsibility efforts across the continent'.

Obama has a minority equity stake in the venture, which he 'intends to use to fund Obama Foundation youth and leadership programmes across Africa', and commented 'The NBA has always been a great ambassador for the United States - using the game to create deeper connections around the world, and in Africa, basketball has the power to promote opportunity, wellness, equality, and empowerment across the continent. I’ve been impressed by the league’s commitment to Africa, including the leadership shown by so many African players who want to give back to their own countries and communities. That’s why I’m proud to join the team at NBA Africa and look forward to a partnership that benefits the youth of so many countries'.