The Francophone Games in Kinshasa 2023: An unforgettable cultural and sporting celebration
After numerous postponements due to the covid-19 pandemic, the Games of La Francophonie are finally back in Kinshasa, the largest French-speaking city in the world. Under the leadership of President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, these IX Games were officially inaugurated on July 28, 2023, in front of a crowd of more than 80 people gathered at the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa.
The opening ceremony was marked by three highlights, reflecting both the cultural richness and the country’s determination to organize this major event. A parade of participating delegations opened the show, highlighting the diversity of athletes from different French-speaking countries.
Several speeches also illustrated the commitment of the Congolese government and the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) to the success of these Games. The Deputy Prime Minister of Foreign Affairs and Francophonie, Christophe Lutundula, underlined the challenges overcome by President Tshisekedi to organize this event despite the difficulties linked to the pandemic and the construction of the necessary infrastructure.
Caroline de Saint Hilaire, administrator of the OIF, underlined the importance of the Games of La Francophonie as an expression of our shared humanity and a reflection of our universal values. The cultural dimension was highlighted throughout the ceremony, with a dazzling artistic spectacle featuring Congolese culture, its natural and human wealth, as well as its modernity. Renowned Congolese artists have also contributed to the enhancement of the artistic scene.
The day after the opening ceremony, nearly 3,000 competitors aged 18 to 35 entered 11 artistic disciplines and 9 sports competitions, giving rise to moments of intense competition and remarkable performances. From football to dance via music and the visual arts, these Games of La Francophonie offer a real cultural melting pot where talents express themselves and meet in a spirit of brotherhood and fair play.
The organization of this major event testifies to the desire of the Democratic Republic of Congo to play a major role within La Francophonie. First French-speaking country by its area and second by the number of speakers after France, the DRC affirms its place in the French-speaking community by hosting these Games. It is a unique opportunity to showcase the cultural, artistic and sporting diversity of the country, and to create bonds of friendship and cooperation between the participating countries..
The Games of La Francophonie in Kinshasa 2023 will be remembered as an exceptional celebration of the Francophonie, where the passion for sport and culture transcended linguistic and cultural borders. This event highlights the importance of the French language and intercultural dialogue in an increasingly connected world. It also offers a showcase for the promotion of talents and exchanges between French-speaking nations, thus strengthening the ties that unite us. Kinshasa made these Games a real success, thus marking its entry into the history of the Games of La Francophonie