A FIRST LADY IN HER OWN PACE CONGOLESE FOOTBALL

In September 2023, on the eve of the crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier between the DRC and Sudan, Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi publicly pledged her presence at the Stade des Martyrs to cheer on the Leopards. This gesture was widely praised by fans and sports observers alike. That day, alongside President Félix Tshisekedi, she witnessed the Congolese victory that secured the DRC's qualification for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations. Images of the presidential couple applauding the players quickly circulated on social media, reinforcing the perception of renewed institutional support for national sport. But her commitment extends beyond mere protocol. On numerous occasions, the First Lady has sent messages of support to Congolese athletes, particularly during times of intense sporting or patriotic pressure.

FOOTBALL AS A TOOL OF NATIONAL UNITY

In the DRC, football holds a special place. The exploits of the Leopards have often served as a unifying force in a country marked by political, economic, and security challenges. Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi seems to have fully grasped this symbolic dimension. During celebrations surrounding the Leopards' performances, she has regularly displayed a close connection with the players, supporters, and Congolese families. In November 2025, during the triumphant welcome of the Leopards after their qualification for the 2026 World Cup intercontinental playoffs, she was present at the Stade des Martyrs alongside the Head of State to congratulate the national team. A few months later, in April 2026, she again participated in a ceremony organized in honor of the players who had qualified for the 2026 World Cup, illustrating the continuity of this political and symbolic support.

A POPULAR IMAGE A MODERN

In the eyes of the Congolese public, Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi enjoys an image associated with youth, social action, and modern communication. Highly active in the fields of health, education, and women's empowerment through the LONA Foundation, she also cultivates an accessible presence at popular events. Her support for the Leopards (the national football team) contributes to building an image of a First Lady who resonates with the collective emotions of the Congolese people. In a country where football unites all generations and social classes, each appearance in the stands takes on a highly symbolic dimension.

THE OTHER FACE OF SPORTING PATRIOTISM

Through her outspoken support of the Leopards, Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi embodies a form of modern sporting patriotism. She may not wear cleats or a captain's armband, but her role in the moral and symbolic support of the national team is now clearly visible. On victory nights as well as during periods of waiting, she appears as the Leopards' "other supporter": a constant, discreet, and media-savvy presence that serves as a reminder that Congolese football extends far beyond the realm of sport. Because in the DRC, supporting the Leopards is also supporting a sense of nationhood.