The African Football League, a competition bringing together eight major African clubs, is about to begin its first edition. Among these clubs, TP Mazembe represents the Democratic Republic of Congo, but there are concerns about the arrival of match broadcast equipment in Lubumbashi.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) recently sent a letter to TP Mazembe urging them to facilitate the transport of broadcast equipment to Lubumbashi. CAF stressed that obtaining an import letter was necessary so that the equipment from the Medialusco company could be transported quickly to the match venue.
According to the information reported, Medialusco’s request was made in July, but did not receive a favorable response. TP Mazembe responded by requesting temporary admission of the equipment to Lubumbashi, without duties or taxes, arguing that the organization of African Football League matches requires adequate logistics for the television production of the matches.
Unfortunately, two weeks have passed since the beginning of October and the situation has not changed. Medialusco equipment, which was used during the 9th Francophonie Games for production and broadcasting, remains blocked in the installations of the General Directorate of Customs and Excise (DGDA) in Kinshasa, without the reasons for this blockage being clarified. are clearly explained.
This situation is of great concern to TP Mazembe, especially since their first match in the African Football League is scheduled in just six days in Kamalondo. This setback adds to the numerous past disputes between the club and the Congolese authorities, highlighting the complex relationship that the five-time African champions maintain with local authorities.
It is essential that this problem is quickly resolved so that TP Mazembe can fully participate in this competition. The Congolese club has proven its quality in the past and deserves to represent the country in the African Football League. Let us hope that the competent authorities will take the necessary measures to allow the delivery of broadcast equipment and thus guarantee the smooth running of the TP Mazembe matches.