The Games of La Francophonie, a major sporting and cultural competition bringing together French-speaking countries, will be held in a few weeks in Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, the director of the national committee of the event, Isidore Kwandja, expressed his surprise at the withdrawal of some countries which had initially planned to participate.
According to Kwandja, all the concerns raised by these countries, such as security, health and infrastructure issues, have been taken into account by the Congolese government. He recalls having received delegations from Canada, Quebec and New Brunswick, which had expressed their security concerns. Guarantees had been given by the Congolese authorities, and some of these delegations had even already selected their teams for the Games.
Despite these efforts, countries like Quebec finally decided to withdraw. However, other French-speaking countries such as New Brunswick, Switzerland, Wallonia and France have confirmed their participation. Isidore Kwandja takes note of the sovereign decision of these countries, while stressing that many other French-speaking nations will be present at the Games.
The ninth edition of the Francophonie Games will take place from July 28 to August 6 in Kinshasa. This event aims to promote the values of the Francophonie, sport and culture, and to strengthen ties between the participating countries. Despite the challenges encountered, the Organizing Committee remains determined to make these Games a memorable success.
It is regrettable to note the withdrawals of certain countries, but that should not taint the spirit of solidarity and fraternity which animates the Francophonie. The Games of La Francophonie will remain a unique opportunity to celebrate the linguistic and cultural diversity of the participating countries, and to promote sporting and artistic excellence