Barcelona’s training kits will soon feature the slogan “DR Congo – Heart of Africa” following a new four-year agreement with the Congolese government. The deal, reportedly worth €44 million, has sparked debate over whether the funds could have been better spent domestically amid ongoing instability in the country.
While the exact financial terms remain undisclosed, the partnership includes more than just shirt branding. Barcelona will host a cultural exhibition at Camp Nou to highlight DR Congo’s heritage and organize youth sports camps for Congolese athletes. Additionally, 50 young footballers and 10 coaches will attend a training program in Spain.
Critics argue that the government should prioritize its struggling domestic football league and infrastructure instead of investing in foreign sponsorships. “If they want to attract tourists, they should improve the country first,” said one Kinshasa resident. Others, however, see the deal as a chance to reshape DR Congo’s global image and boost tourism.
This move follows similar agreements between African nations and European football clubs. Rwanda’s “Visit Rwanda” campaign with Arsenal has drawn scrutiny, especially amid accusations of Rwandan involvement in Congo’s eastern conflict. DR Congo’s foreign minister previously questioned the ethics of such deals, but the government insists the Barcelona partnership is a strategic investment.
The deal comes as DR Congo grapples with rebel violence in the east, despite a recent ceasefire. Some fear the sponsorship could divert attention from the country’s humanitarian and political challenges.
Meanwhile, other African nations have faced backlash for similar sports sponsorships. South Africa’s proposed deal with Tottenham collapsed after public outcry, highlighting the delicate balance between international promotion and domestic priorities.
