Less than a week separates us from the kick-off of the IX Games of La Francophonie in Kinshasa, scheduled for Friday July 28, 2023. As part of this major event, the Congolese government has focused on visiting the various sites that will host the competitions. A delegation comprising members of the government and French-speaking diplomats was thus able to observe the progress of the work and express its optimism regarding the preparation of the event.
The tour started at the Stade des Martyrs, where several works are in the finishing phase. Beautification work continues and the tartan has been completely redone to meet international standards. At the University of Kinshasa, which will serve as accommodation for the athletes, the student residences are rehabilitated and equipped, and the dining hall is ready. Beautification works are also being finalized. The site is already supplied with water thanks to the installation of cisterns by Regideso.
While most venues appear to be ready on time, concerns remain over the delivery of the works at the Tata Raphaël Stadium. The modernization work is still continuing, in particular with the laying of the lawn which should be finished by this weekend. The village of La Francophonie also sees a third of its residences being installed, but part of the site will not be ready in time. This poses a challenge for hosting delegations, but alternative solutions will be proposed.
French-speaking diplomats expressed their reservations about the progress of the work, stressing that there is still work to be done at various sites. They nevertheless wished that all the facilities be finalized on time to accommodate the delegations from nearly 40 countries expected in Kinshasa. The Jeux de la Francophonie, which were awarded to the DRC in 2019, are a major event that will highlight the diversity and richness of the Francophonie around the world.
Despite some challenges, the Congolese government remains confident about the preparation of the Games of La Francophonie in Kinshasa. There are only a few days left before the start of the event, and the authorities are working hard to finalize the work and offer a memorable sporting and cultural event. The DRC is proud to host this prestigious competition and makes every effort to ensure that the Games of La Francophonie take place in the best possible conditions