Wenzhou-Backed “Village Super League” Brings Community and Culture to Life in DR Congo

Recently, a"Village Super League" football match was held in Lonshi Village, Lubumbashi, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo—over 10,000 kilometers from Wenzhou, China, and six hours behind in time. The match marked a decisive stage in the tournament, determining which teams would advance to the quarterfinals. Organized by Jinchengxin Mining Construction Co., Ltd., a Wenzhou-based enterprise, the event has now been held for three consecutive years.

Founded by Wang Xiancheng, a native of Cangnan County in Wenzhou, Jinchengxin is a leading Chinese mining company. In 2021, the company acquired the Lonshi Copper Mine through overseas investment and established Jinchengxin Sabwe Mining Co., Ltd. in Lonshi Village, which has a population of over 4,000. Since then, it has actively promoted the principle of people-to-people connectivity under the Belt and Road Initiative, focusing on improving local livelihoods. The company has repaired infrastructure, provided free electricity to residents, and supported education and healthcare initiatives, ensuring that the benefits of mining development are shared by the community.

The"Lonshi Cup" football tournament has become a flagship project in this effort. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, football is more than a sport—it is a national passion and a powerful social unifier, bringing together people across generations and social groups. Recognizing its cultural significance, the company renovated the local football field in November 2022 and began co-organizing the competition with the Lonshi Sports Association.

This year's tournament features 13 teams composed of local villagers, company employees, security personnel, and port workers—all residents of the area. To ensure smooth operations, Jinchengxin Sabwe provides comprehensive support, including funding, technical assistance, staffing, and team uniforms for all participating teams.

Since the opening match on August 23, the football field has become the focal point of community life in Lonshi Village. Weekend matches, held at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM, consistently draw large crowds. Whenever a goal is scored, spectators often rush onto the pitch to celebrate with the players—a vivid expression of collective joy. The two-month tournament will conclude with a championship final expected to attract attendees from across the Kipilingu community, transforming the event into a major regional celebration.

Maina Kiloba Jean Claud, President of the Lonshi Sports Association, stated:"By improving sports facilities and organizing regular football events, Sabwe Company has not only enriched our cultural life but also created a platform for young people to showcase their talents. This is a living example of friendship and mutual understanding between China and the DRC."

Concurrent with the tournament, Jinchengxin has advanced several community development initiatives. With the company's support, school enrollment among school-age youth in Lonshi Village has reached nearly 100%. Ongoing projects include the renovation and expansion of Lonshi Primary and Secondary Schools, upgrades to the village clinic, and the construction of eight manually operated water wells and several electric water wells to improve access to clean water.

Through these efforts, Jinchengxin continues to fulfill its long-term commitment to sustainable and inclusive development, contributing to a more resilient and connected community in the heart of Africa.