The Francophone Games in Kinshasa: a celebration of Francophone sporting excellence
The IX Games of La Francophonie are scheduled in Kinshasa from July 28 to August 6, 2023 and promise to be a major event. Despite logistical challenges and security and health concerns, the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo remains optimistic about the success of these games.
During the 103rd meeting of the Council of Ministers, Prime Minister Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde reaffirmed the government’s desire to do everything possible to ensure the preparation of the athletes and the success of the Games. However, several French-speaking countries, such as Quebec, New Brunswick and the Wallonia-Brussels Federation, have announced their withdrawal from this edition for various reasons.
However, despite these withdrawals, Kinshasa remains determined to host this prestigious event which brings together young artistic and sporting talents from French-speaking countries. The Francophonie Games are a four-year competition that combines sporting events and cultural competitions, with the aim of highlighting the talents of French-speaking youth aged 18 to 35.
Kinshasa thus succeeds Rabat, Casablanca, Paris, Antananarivo, Ottawa, Hull, Niamey, Beirut, Nice and Abidjan as the host city of the Francophone Games. The DRC obtained the organization of this event during the 108th session of the Permanent Council of La Francophonie in July 2019. Initially scheduled for 2021, the Games were postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The previous edition, which took place in Côte d’Ivoire in 2017, brought together nearly 3,500 participants from 53 countries. The Games of La Francophonie are therefore a unique opportunity to promote the cultural and sporting diversity of the Francophonie while encouraging young people to surpass themselves in their respective fields.
Despite the obstacles encountered, Kinshasa remains confident about the success of this edition of the Francophone Games. Preparations are underway and the city is preparing to welcome the best French-speaking talent in a spirit of competition, exchange and celebration of the Francophonie.
The Games of La Francophonie in Kinshasa will therefore be an opportunity to highlight the dynamism and excellence of French-speaking sport, while strengthening the links between the countries of the Francophonie. A real celebration of sport and culture that will promote the values of the Francophonie and show the world the richness and diversity of French-speaking youth.