The Democratic Republic of Congo has expressed strong criticisms against the sponsorship agreements between top European football clubs and Rwanda. This comes at a time when the country is facing a severe crisis, with hundreds of thousands of people fleeing due to escalating conflict between M23 rebels and Congolese troops.
The violence in the region has led to grave human rights violations, including summary executions, attacks on displacement camps, and disturbing reports of gang rape and other forms of sexual violence, as reported by the United Nations.
Congo’s Foreign Minister, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, recently reiterated the country’s stance by urging football clubs such as Arsenal, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain to sever their ties with Rwanda, which she described as “blood-stained”.
The Ministry of Health in DR Congo revealed that nearly 800 bodies were found in hospital morgues in Goma following the offensive by M23 rebels to capture the city, known for its lucrative mining industry that includes gold, coltan, and tin.
Kayikwamba Wagner accused Rwanda of supporting rebel groups responsible for the violence, including acts of rape and murder in eastern Congo. She specifically called on Arsenal’s owners, the Kroenke family, as well as Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, to end their partnerships with Rwanda’s tourism campaign, “Visit Rwanda”.
In a letter addressed to the Kroenkes, she highlighted the dire situation in Goma, where thousands are trapped without basic necessities and facing rampant violence. The DRC government estimates that 500,000 people have been displaced in the eastern region, with Rwandan troops and the Rwanda-backed rebel group, M23, operating in the area.
On the other hand, Rwanda has sponsorship deals with Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich, totaling £10 million per year for the “Visit Rwanda” campaign. Additionally, a partnership with Bayern Munich was announced to promote tourism and establish a football academy in Rwanda.
Overall, the controversy surrounding these sponsorship agreements highlights the complexities of international relations and the impact of commercial partnerships on geopolitical conflicts.
