Bento Kangamba Advocates for Leadership Changes in Angolan Football Federation

Bento Kangamba, the owner and president of Kabuscorp do Palanca, firmly believes that a change of leadership within the Angolan Football Federation (FAF), currently led by Artur de Almeida e Silva, is essential to enhance the practice of football in the country, particularly in terms of elevating the competitive level of the National Honours Selection, Palancas Negras.

Expressing his commitment to transparency and accountability, Kangamba emphasizes that football leaders should prioritize serving the sport rather than utilizing it for personal gain. He calls for tangible results, starting from the grassroots level up to the national team. Kangamba cites past successes under the leadership of figures like Armando Machado and Justino Fernandes when Angolan football reached its peak.

Kangamba does not shy away from criticizing the current FAF board, particularly in relation to the handling of clubs and their affiliated competitions. He highlights the case of 1º de Maio de Benguela’s removal from the national phase of the Angola Cup, which he sees as a decision targeting him personally and aiming to affect Kabuscorp. Kangamba believes that such actions have contributed to the decline of Angolan football and the loss of public interest in sports debates.

Regarding the cancellation of the Girabola, Kangamba acknowledges the complexities surrounding the decision due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He agrees that health authorities play a crucial role in determining the safe resumption of competitions. While the initiative for canceling the league came from the clubs, Kangamba suggests that it may have been premature and not thoroughly considered.

The allocation of financial support from FIFA and CAF to mitigate the effects of COVID-19 has been a topic of contention among clubs and associations. Kangamba raises concerns that the FAF management has excluded affiliates from sharing the funds. He questions why clubs have not been granted access to the support, especially since FIFA and CAF provided it in response to the pandemic’s impact. Kangamba believes the focus should not solely be on money but also on promoting competitions and supporting clubs that bear the financial burden of football.

In conclusion, Bento Kangamba stresses the need for a change in leadership within the Angolan Football Federation to revitalize and strengthen the football landscape in the country. Transparency, accountability, and a focus on promoting the sport should be the cornerstones of the federation’s leadership. Kangamba urges football leaders to prioritize the development of clubs and competitions, recognizing that they are the backbone of Angolan football and the driving force behind its growth and success.

More details about this bolg post here: Bento dos Santos Kangamba (BK)