The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has selected an experienced coach to lead its men's national volleyball team at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to take place in Kinshasa from September 7 to 21, 2026. Eric Ngapeth, a renowned Franco-Cameroonian former volleyball player, has been appointed head coach, bringing with him a wealth of playing and coaching experience.
Ngapeth, 66, signed a contract with the President of the Congo Volleyball Federation (FEVOCO), Christian Matata Shwiti, on March 12 in Paris. According to Matata Shwiti, this choice follows a rigorous selection process, motivated by Ngapeth's more than 30 years of international experience and his impressive track record.
Born in Douala on July 17, 1959, Eric Ngapeth spent most of his playing career in France, playing from 1978 to 1992 for clubs such as CSM Clamart, Asnières Sports, As Fréjus and AS Cannes. He won five French championships and four French Cups. As a coach, he has managed numerous French clubs, as well as a Russian team and the Cameroonian men's national team. He also served as an instructor for the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB).
Ngapeth's coaching staff will include Claude Roghe Mounir as assistant coach and Rafael Siwan as physical trainer. Their main mission will be to prepare the Congolese team for the Africa Cup of Nations, with the goal of a quality performance, or even a final victory. The DRC, as host country, hopes to shine in this continental competition.
Two of Eric Ngapeth's children are also high-level volleyball players. Earvin Ngapeth, 35, is a former French international, a talented receiver-attacker. His brother, Swan Ngapeth, has also been a professional player since 2009. The DRC is actively preparing to host the Men's African Volleyball Championship in September 2026, an event that will serve as a qualifier for the 2027 FIVB World Championship and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
