The Games of La Francophonie are an international event that brings together the best French-speaking artistic and sporting talents. After successful previous editions in Rabat, Casablanca, Paris, Antananarivo, Ottawa, Hull, Niamey, Beirut, and Abidjan, it is now the turn of Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), to host the ninth edition of these games.
Originally scheduled for 2021, the Games of La Francophonie have been postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Today, less than three weeks from the opening ceremony scheduled for July 28 to August 6, 2023, Kinshasa remains optimistic about the success of this major event.
However, despite this optimism, some French-speaking countries have expressed their concerns and have decided not to participate fully in the games for security, health or logistical reasons. Quebec, the French-speaking region of Canada, has announced its withdrawal from this year’s edition. New Brunswick, another French-speaking region of Canada, will send a reduced delegation. The Wallonia-Brussels Federation of Belgium has also decided not to participate in sports competitions.
Despite these withdrawals, Kinshasa remains determined to make these Games of La Francophonie a success and to promote the cultural and linguistic diversity of La Francophonie. The President of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, Alassane Dramane Ouattara, received an invitation from his Congolese counterpart, Félix Tshisekedi, to attend the opening ceremony. This invitation demonstrates the importance of this event for the Francophone community.
The Games of La Francophonie offer a unique platform to showcase the talents and creativity of young Francophone artists and athletes. They promote cultural exchanges, strengthen ties between French-speaking countries and help promote the French language throughout the world. Kinshasa, with its rich cultural heritage and passion for sport, is ready to host this international event and provide an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators.
Preparations are underway in Kinshasa to guarantee the safety, comfort and success of the Games of La Francophonie 2023. The country is putting in place all the necessary measures to ensure the smooth running of the event and guarantee that the athletes and artists can express all their talent in the best conditions.
The Games of La Francophonie in Kinshasa in 2023 are a unique opportunity to celebrate the diversity, creativity and common values of French-speaking countries. Despite the challenges posed, the DRC is doing everything possible to make this edition a success and to offer a memorable experience to all participants. All eyes are now on Kinshasa, ready to welcome the French-speaking world for unforgettable Francophonie Games