CAVB confirms DR Congo as hosts for 2026 Men’s African Volleyball Championship

A historic agreement was signed yesterday, at the headquarters of the African Volleyball Confederation (CAVB) in Rabat, Morocco confirming the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as host of the Men’s African Volleyball Championship scheduled for September 2026.

The formal accord commits both the continental body and the Congolese authorities to delivering one of Africa’s flagship sporting events.

Beyond its ceremonial value, the championship carries major sporting significance, as it will serve as a qualifying tournament for both the 2027 FIVB World Championship and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, raising the stakes for participating nations across the continent.

The signing ceremony was presided over by CAVB President, Mrs. Bouchra Hajij, alongside the President of the Congo Volleyball Federation (FEVOCO), Christian Matata. Several African volleyball leaders were in attendance, including federation presidents from Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo and Morocco, underscoring the continental importance of the occasion.

Speaking after the signing, Matata highlighted the strong institutional and political backing behind the bid, revealing that the initiative was driven by the highest levels of government in the DRC.

He recalled the successful hosting of the Francophone Games two years ago, which helped the country develop modern sports infrastructure and inspired a policy shift toward hosting major competitions rather than merely participating abroad.

Matata further stressed that the directive to host the championship came directly from the President of the Republic through the Minister of Sports, noting that the 2026 tournament represents a major opportunity for the DRC, given its role as a qualifier for both the World Championship and the Olympic Games.

In her remarks, Mrs. Hajij explained that the choice of the DRC was based on the country’s growing volleyball profile, strong governmental commitment and the promise of passionate fan support.

She emphasized that the agreement reflects CAVB’s broader vision of strengthening cooperation among African nations, promoting good governance and elevating continental competitions to meet international standards while fostering the sustainable development of volleyball across Africa.