The IX Games of La Francophonie are fast approaching and Kinshasa is actively preparing to host this major sporting and cultural event. From July 28 to August 6, 2023, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo will be the scene of exciting competitions in nine different disciplines.
In a recent statement, François Kabulo, Minister of Sports and Leisure, announced the finalization of the teams that will represent the DRC during these games. “In athletics, we will have 71 Congolese athletes, in women’s basketball 12 players, in cycling 14 athletes, in judo 14 participants, in African wrestling 30 wrestlers, in freestyle wrestling 30 wrestlers and in table tennis 2 participants. In football, we will engage a delegation of 20 athletes”, he detailed.
Despite preparation conditions that are not always ideal, Kinshasa aims to surpass its performances during the previous Games of La Francophonie. In 2017, during the edition in Côte d’Ivoire, the DRC won three medals: a gold medal and two bronze medals. François Kabulo says he is confident in the ability of the Congolese team to beat this record and improve.
Regarding the rumors that the DRC would not be able to participate due to payment problems, the Minister of Sports and Recreation wanted to dispel them. He affirmed that the country was in order with the International Committee of the Games of the Francophonie and that there was no concern to have on this side. “It is abnormal that a host country cannot participate in its own games,” he said.
The Games of La Francophonie were awarded to the DRC in 2019 during the 108th session of the Permanent Council of La Francophonie. Initially scheduled for 2021, they have been postponed several times due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The enthusiasm is palpable in Kinshasa, which is preparing to welcome athletes from French-speaking countries around the world. The sites are inspected and ready to host the competitions, and the ambition is strong to make the DRC shine and win more medals during these IX Games of La Francophonie.
The Games of La Francophonie offer a unique opportunity to celebrate the cultural and sporting diversity of French-speaking countries. Kinshasa is preparing to be the center of this celebration, with the hope of creating moments of pride and coming together for all participants.
In conclusion, the IX Games of La Francophonie in Kinshasa promise to be a spectacular event, showcasing the sporting and cultural talents of the DRC and French-speaking countries around the world