WHY Tshisekedi’s $2M Plan Could Help Linafoot Clubs Travel Better

President Félix Tshisekedi’s announcement of a yearly $2 million allocation for club transportation is being viewed as a major signal of state backing for Congolese football reform, according to reports from local media.

The funding pledge was announced after a meeting in Kinshasa on May 27 between the Congolese president and the newly elected leadership of the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFA), headed by Véron Mosengo-Omba.

According to Radio Okapi, the money is intended to help clubs participating in the Linafoot Ligue 1 championship manage travel expenses across the vast territory of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Transport costs have long been cited as one of the biggest logistical problems facing Congolese football clubs, often affecting match scheduling, player movement, and financial stability. FECOFA officials also raised concerns about insecurity inside stadiums, weak local league structures, and insufficient sports infrastructure during their discussions with the presidency.

The federation further announced plans to organize a seminar focused on stadium security and matchday safety in cooperation with state security services. FECOFA leaders also emphasized the importance of school football competitions as a tool for identifying and developing young talent nationwide.

Officials additionally discussed a proposed national sports center aimed at strengthening youth training and long-term football development in the DRC. The initiative forms part of broader efforts by FECOFA and public authorities to modernize football administration and improve competitive standards across the country.

Following the meeting, the FECOFA delegation welcomed the commitments made by the government and reiterated its intention to promote transparency, credibility, and sustainable development within Congolese football.