Shaquille O’Neal’s African Roots Lure Him to Connect 1 Billion People Courtesy of Kenyan President William Ruto’s Assistance

The NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal has always been connected to his African roots, which has urged him to do something for the African community. In 2021, for the first time, he did something significant for Africa by launching his first sneaker and apparel brand, SHAQ. Not only this, but he launched the sneakers targeting “everyday” use rather than a premium product. But what are his plans in 2024?

Now, three years since, O’Neal has become Africa’s first digital ambassador for education for the Partnership for Digital Access Africa. He also got to meet President Ruto. To share a glimpse of this new initiative, Shaq took to his official Instagram account and posted a couple of pictures of himself. Alongside the pictures, he penned, “Honored to serve as the first Digital Ambassador for Education for the Partnership for Digital Access Africa and thrilled to meet President Ruto this week in Atlanta.”

But what is this initiative all about? Vice President Kamala Harris launched a non-profit partnership in 2023 focusing on improving internet access in Africa – 80% by 2023. As this initiative gained attention, it garnered the interest of millions. Likewise, the cause resonated with the 4x NBA champion. Having come from poverty himself, Shaq recognized the pivotal role played by digital access. Hence, it didn’t take long for the big man to become a part this initiative that aims at “connecting 1 billion people to the internet“.

Expressing his gratitude for the same to Kenyan President William Ruto, he said, “His support is critical to the mission of #PDAA and our shared goal to bridge the digital divide in Africa, connecting 1 billion people to the internet. Thank you @williamsamoeiruto and @mamarachelruto #DigitalAccessAfrica.” However, this is not the first time Shaq is making a game-changing move.

Shaq’s affordable sneaker evolution

Notably, the launch of Shaq’s sneaker collection was inspired by a fan’s request. Once, a fan asked him to produce a line of sneakers that would be affordable for families like hers. Taking her words to heart, the NBA legend decided to sign a $40 million deal in 2004 to launch SHAQ shoes.

Rather than earning huge profits, Shaq aimed at making his sneakers more accessible and affordable. Since then, Shaq has turned heads with sneakers priced under R1,000. Despite having designers from Reebok, Shaq’s affordable range sold more than 400 million pairs of sneakers. Sounds interesting, right? But there’s more to come. Stay tuned for more related updates!

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato had to say about the marketing genius, watch this video.