Title: The Games of La Francophonie 2023: a celebration of Francophone diversity, solidarity and excellence
Introduction :
From July 28 to August 6, 2023, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kinshasa, hosted the ninth edition of the Games of La Francophonie. This international event, officially launched by President Félix Tshisekedi, represents a strong symbol of the vitality of the French-speaking family and of solidarity with the Congolese people, victims of injustice and the looting of their wealth. These games are also an opportunity to celebrate friendship, solidarity and complementarity between peoples in cultural diversity.
The active participation of French-speakers from all over the world helps to strengthen ties within the Francophonie and to highlight the talents of Congolese athletes and artists. The sports and cultural infrastructures, entirely financed by the Congolese State, are ready to host sports competitions and the various artistic expressions.
A celebration of Francophone cultural diversity:
The Games of La Francophonie are a true crossroads of cultural diversity. For nine days, spectators were able to admire the talent of athletes in different sports disciplines such as athletics, swimming, basketball, football, table tennis, etc. The artists also had the opportunity to showcase their creativity through theatrical performances, art exhibitions, concerts, and many other cultural events.
The objective of these games is to bring together borders, cultures and languages under the same banner: that of La Francophonie. Athletes and French-speaking artists were thus able to share their experiences, discuss and forge links to promote cultural diversity and strengthen solidarity between peoples.
A legacy for future youth:
Félix Tshisekedi emphasizes that the Games of La Francophonie are a strong symbol of the collective desire to live and the shared determination to bequeath them to future youth. The founding fathers of La Francophonie, including Léopold Sédar Senghor, initiated this formidable adventure which today makes it possible to celebrate La Francophonie in all its richness and diversity.
These games also offer the opportunity to highlight the Congolese cultural heritage, with its writers, musicians, painters and other creators who contribute to the beauty of the city of Kinshasa. This showcase of the DRC is a true crossroads of cultural diversity where visitors can discover the richness of Congolese genius.
Conclusion :
The 2023 Francophone Games in Kinshasa were a celebration of Francophone diversity, solidarity and excellence. This event brought together Francophones from around the world, showcased the talents of Congolese athletes and artists, and promoted the richness of Francophone cultural diversity. The infrastructures financed by the Congolese State testify to the country’s commitment to hosting these games in the best conditions. The Games of La Francophonie will remain a precious legacy for future youth, reminding them of the importance of solidarity and diversity in building a better future