Olive Kiloha, the current president of DR Congo National Women’s Football League (LINAFF), is seeking re-election as she aims to build on what she describes as a period of renewal for women’s football in the country.
Her candidacy comes at a time when attention is increasingly turning toward the growth of the women’s game in the Central African nation, with several developments in recent years pointing to a more structured and competitive environment.
Since assuming office, Kiloha has focused on raising the profile of women’s football both domestically and beyond.
Her work has extended into continental structures, where she has served on the Confederation of African Football’s Women’s Football Organising Committee since 2022.
She also holds a safeguarding role within the Union of Central African Football Federations, positioning her within broader policy discussions affecting the sport across the region.
At home, her leadership has been marked by efforts to improve organisation and expand opportunities for players.
One of the league’s notable initiatives has been the introduction of a national university championship, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Higher and University Education.
The competition is designed to widen the talent pool and create additional pathways into the sport.
LINAFF has also implemented annual training sessions for clubs on the Confederation of African Football’s club licensing platform, known as CLOP.
These programmes aim to strengthen administrative standards and ensure compliance with continental requirements.
One of the most visible outcomes of these reforms has been the return of the Democratic Republic of Congo women’s national team to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after a 13-year absence.
The development has been widely viewed as a sign of renewed momentum within the sport.
At club level, Congolese sides have also made an impact. FCF TP Mazembe claimed the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League title, while Kinshasa-based FCF Amani finished as runners-up in the UNIFFAC zonal competition.
Domestically, the women’s national cup has seen increased visibility, contributing to greater competition among teams.
The league has further supported clubs by facilitating travel to national championship fixtures, particularly since 2024, helping to ease logistical challenges that have historically limited participation.
Efforts to raise the sport’s profile have extended beyond competitions.
Women’s football is set to be included in future editions of the Francophonie Games, while a landmark derby between AS Vita Club and DC Motema Pembe in August 2023 marked a significant moment for visibility in Kinshasa.
Kiloha has also prioritised digital engagement, with LINAFF increasing its online presence in recent years to connect with younger audiences.
“We have redefined the image of Congolese women’s football and implemented strategies adapted to a connected generation,” she said.
Her supporters argue that these measures reflect a broader ambition to reposition the country within African women’s football.
“His commitment is not limited to a function; it aims to restore the place and influence of Congolese women’s football.”
As the election approaches, Kiloha is campaigning on a platform of continuity, pledging to consolidate recent gains and further professionalise the sport.
