Former player Shabani Nonda has officially declared his candidacy for the presidency of the Fédération Congolaise de Football Association, positioning himself as a reform-driven figure at a pivotal moment for Congolese football.
Nonda, who earned 48 caps for the DR Congo national football team and enjoyed a distinguished career across several top European leagues, announced his intention to lead the federation with a focus on structural development and long-term growth. He emphasized that his international profile and deep understanding of the game would be central to his leadership approach.
“I want to use my experience, network, and reputation to bring meaningful change to our football,” Nonda indicated, outlining ambitions that include strengthening grassroots systems, improving governance, and enhancing the competitiveness of domestic football structures.
His declaration comes at a time of heightened optimism following DR Congo’s historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup—a milestone that has reignited national enthusiasm and increased expectations for sustained progress within the sport.
Observers note that Nonda’s candidacy could resonate strongly with both stakeholders and supporters seeking a leadership figure with direct playing experience at the highest level. However, the race for the FECOFA presidency is expected to be competitive, with governance, transparency, and football development likely to dominate the campaign discourse.
As the electoral process unfolds, attention will center on whether Nonda can translate his on-field legacy into administrative success, at a time when Congolese football stands on the brink of a potentially transformative era.
