Preparations for the 9th edition of the Francophonie Games, which will take place in Kinshasa in July and August 2023, are underway. The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Francophonie, Christophe Lutundula, announced a new list of members of departments and commissions that will oversee this international event.
Although this list contains a few new names, many members have been reappointed to their previous positions. Ntumba Kabuya Jeannot now oversees the cultural competitions department, with Mingashanga Bushebu Jean-Claude as deputy supervisor and Valentin Kuamba Kuka as rapporteur. The sports competitions department will be supervised by Sadala Babaly Ali with Lupaya Lupaya Elysée as assistant supervisor and Kabangu Eloge Éloge as rapporteur.
Mrs. Patricia Panzu Pueta continues to lead the communication commission, with the assistance of Lukumwena Mutombo Éric and Dimbi Dimbi Guyfolly as assistant supervisors and rapporteurs. Patrick Lakwe has been appointed head of the Ticketing Commission.
These appointments have, however, been met with skepticism by some people, particularly given the rapid political evolution in the DRC. There have been criticisms that the newly appointed members may not be competent enough to handle the event. In addition, it is to be deplored that the previous members were dismissed.
The Foreign Minister justified the changes by saying that the sacked members were part of the former government and were close to the former Minister of Regional Integration and Francophonie Didier Mazenga.
The Games of La Francophonie are a quadrennial competition that combines sporting events and cultural competitions for young people aged 18 to 35. This event aims to promote the talents of French-speaking youth around the world. The last edition took place in Côte d’Ivoire in 2017 and brought together nearly 3,500 participants from 53 countries.
The host country for the next edition is Congo-Kinshasa. This 9th edition is eagerly awaited and will be a great challenge for the organizers in a changing political context.