Kingshasa, DR Congo: From September 25 to 27, 2025, the bustling city of Kinshasa served as the vibrant backdrop for the CAF Festival – KinFoot 2025, skillfully organized by the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF). This exciting event preceded the CAF General Assembly set for October 6, uniting young people from the Ngaliema commune under the inspiring themes of education, inclusion, and hope.
The festival kicked off with a heartfelt distribution of school kits provided by CAF, aimed at empowering local children and emphasizing the importance of education.
This initiative not only showcased the organization’s commitment to enhancing accessibility to education but also encouraged youth participation throughout the festival. With a plethora of activities on offer, the event was well-received by hundreds of children, educators, and football enthusiasts alike.
A standout feature of the festival was a spirited football tournament designed to promote the sport as a catalyst for social and civic development. The competition drew 16 enthusiastic teams from local schools, fostering a spirit of fair play, camaraderie, and discovery among the participants.
The École Moderne and ITC Djelo Binza schools emerged as champions in the girls’ and boys’ categories, respectively, after a series of thrilling matches that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. The second day was focused on educational advancement, featuring a series of workshops conducted at the National Pedagogical University.
Led by the CAF Member Associations unit in collaboration with local experts, these sessions covered crucial topics, including technology in sports, youth coaching, safeguarding young players, and the fundamental principles of decision-making in football. The blend of theoretical knowledge with practical sessions ensured that participants could directly apply what they learned on the field.
Former Congolese football stars, including Trésor Lualua, Roger Hitoto, Cyrille Zuma, and Gladys Bokese, added a touch of celebrity to the festival, engaging with young attendees and sharing their experiences. Their presence served as an inspiration, reinforcing the message of inclusion and the transformative power of football.
As the festival concluded, the closing day transformed into a celebration of unity and shared values championed by CAF—namely respect, solidarity, and a passion for the game. The atmosphere was festive as awards were presented, celebrating the achievements of all young participants and encouraging them to continue pursuing their dreams in sports and education.
The CAF Festival – KinFoot 2025 not only provided significant opportunities for grassroots football development but also left an enduring legacy aimed at fostering a brighter future for the youth of Kinshasa.
Through education and sport, CAF showcased its dedication to nurturing the next generation and making a positive impact in the community.
