The Leopards men’s basketball team is currently competing in the Afrobasket taking place in Dakar, Senegal. Their journey started on a positive note, with a victory against the Mali team. However, a shadow hangs over their performance, that of the total lack of financial support from the Government. This worrying situation was highlighted by the president of the Congolese Basketball Federation, Paulin Kabongo.
In a statement to Radio Okapi, Paulin Kabongo expressed his deep disappointment at the lack of recognition towards basketball, despite the successes and medals won on behalf of the country. He denounced the fact that the team had to cover the travel expenses by taking out loans, due to lack of adequate financial support.
The lack of funds to pay the players’ bonus is another cause for concern for the federation. The players, both those coming from abroad and those from Kinshasa, are facing difficult conditions and are waiting for fair recognition of their commitment. The lack of payment for previous missions, such as the 3×3 African Cup of Nations and the Women’s Afro Basket in Kigali, contributes to the uncertainty and unease within the team.
Paulin Kabongo expresses his fear of seeing Congolese basketball sink into a cycle of debt, without recognition or institutional support. He denounces the authorities’ apparent disinterest in basketball, which seriously compromises the efforts and sacrifices made by the players and technical staff.
Faced with this bleak picture, it is urgent that the authorities become aware of the importance of basketball as a vector of national pride and cohesion. Recognizing and financially supporting the teams represents an investment in the country’s talent and sporting potential, while allowing athletes to devote themselves fully to their passion without financial constraints. It is time for Congolese basketball to receive the consideration and support it deserves, to continue to shine on the continental and international scene.