The IX Games of La Francophonie, which will take place from July 28 to August 6, 2023 in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, are already generating great enthusiasm. Kinshasa is actively preparing to host this major sporting event and aims to surpass the performance of previous editions.
According to François Kabulo, Minister of Sports and Leisure, the teams that will represent the DRC in nine disciplines have already been selected. Athletics will have 71 Congolese athletes, women’s basketball will be represented by 12 players, cycling by 14 athletes, judo by 14 participants, African wrestling by 30 wrestlers, freestyle wrestling by 30 participants, while table tennis will see the participation of 2 players. Finally, a delegation of 20 athletes will represent the DRC in the discipline of football.
The objective set by Kinshasa is to win more medals compared to the previous Games of La Francophonie. In 2017, during the 8th edition in Côte d’Ivoire, the DRC obtained a gold medal and two bronze medals, thus totaling three medals. Despite the less than optimal preparation conditions, Minister Kabulo says the DRC will surpass this record and improve.
It is important to note that the DRC has also confirmed its participation in the Games of La Francophonie by paying the required fees. Francois Kabulo was keen to dispel rumors that the country was disqualified due to non-payment of participation fees. He stressed that the DRC is in good standing with the International Committee of the Games of La Francophonie and that its participation in the Games is assured.
The Games of La Francophonie were awarded to the DRC during the 108th session of the Permanent Council of La Francophonie in July 2019. Initially scheduled for 2021, they were postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This event represents an opportunity for the DRC to promote its culture, its sport and to welcome French-speaking athletes from all over the world.
In conclusion, the IX Games of La Francophonie in Kinshasa are arousing great enthusiasm and the Congolese authorities are determined to make it a success. Despite the challenges encountered, the DRC is actively preparing to surpass its past performance and win more medals. These Games will also offer a unique opportunity to promote the cultural and sporting diversity of La Francophonie