KINSHASA – On the eve of the 47th Ordinary General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi held a series of high-level meetings with prominent figures in global and African sports at his offices in the African Union City, Kinshasa.
The Head of State first welcomed a delegation of former Leopards players — the national football icons who won the African Cup of Nations in 1968 and 1974 and represented the Democratic Republic of Congo at the 1974 FIFA World Cup.
The meeting, led by Sports Minister Didier Budimbu, paid tribute to the football legends who brought continental glory to the DRC and laid the foundation for the country’s rich sporting legacy.
President Tshisekedi also received FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, two of the most influential leaders in international football. Discussions reportedly centered on the development of football infrastructure in the DRC, youth talent promotion, and the country’s broader role in strengthening African football governance and competitiveness.
The President later met with Teddy Riner, the celebrated French judoka and multiple Olympic and world champion, who is in Kinshasa as a guest of honour. Their exchange highlighted the importance of sports diplomacy and the growing cooperation between the DRC and global sports figures.
This year’s CAF Ordinary General Assembly, officially opening this Monday in Kinshasa, holds historic importance as it marks the first time the DRC is hosting the continent’s top football decision-making meeting.
The AGO brings together representatives of all 54 CAF member associations, serving as the highest platform for charting the strategic direction of African football for the upcoming season.
Hosting the CAF Assembly underscores the DRC’s renewed commitment to reviving its sporting image and infrastructure while positioning Kinshasa as a hub for major continental events.
The gathering is expected to shape key reforms in African football governance and investment, reinforcing Africa’s growing influence on the global sports stage.