Article: Games of La Francophonie: the Secretary General of the OIF, Louise Mushikiwabo “will not be” in Kinshasa (Official)
The Francophonie Games, scheduled for Kinshasa, are experiencing an unexpected twist. Indeed, the Secretary General of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF), Louise Mushikiwabo, will not be present at this major event. This decision was confirmed by her spokesperson, Oria Vande Weghe, who pointed out that Louise Mushikiwabo will be represented by the administrator of the OIF, Caroline St-Hilaire.
This notable absence is linked to the strained relations between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. Indeed, since last year, the DRC has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebellion, which occupies part of its territory in the east of the country. This conflict situation led to a deterioration of relations between the two countries, making the presence of Louise Mushikiwabo in Kinshasa difficult.
Initially, the Congolese authorities had announced the presence of the Secretary General of the OIF at the opening ceremony of the Games of La Francophonie. However, no formal invitation was received by Louise Mushikiwabo, which prompted the General Secretary to reconsider her trip. Despite this absence, the spokesperson underlined that the main importance for Louise Mushikiwabo is that the Games go well, and that this event so awaited by French-speaking youth can be a success.
The Francophone Games are an opportunity to celebrate the diversity and talent of the Francophonie around the world. They bring together athletes, artists and young talents in a friendly and cultural competition. Despite this disappointment linked to the absence of the Secretary General of the OIF, the event promises to be grandiose, with representatives of many French-speaking countries who will meet in Kinshasa to share their passion and their commitment to the Francophonie.
In conclusion, the decision of the Secretary General of the OIF, Louise Mushikiwabo, not to attend the Games of La Francophonie in Kinshasa because of the tensions between the DRC and Rwanda is regrettable. However, the importance of this event in promoting cultural diversity and Francophone talent cannot be understated. The Francophonie Games will therefore be a unique opportunity to celebrate the Francophonie and highlight the talents and values that characterize it