The IX Games of La Francophonie, which took place from July 26 to August 6 in Kinshasa, were marked by the exceptional performances of the Democratic Republic of Congo. In total, the host country won 34 medals, 10 of which were won by women. A 100% female team even won one of these medals.
In the discipline of athletics and Para athletics, several Congolese athletes have distinguished themselves. C. Asifiwe Nzabava thus won the bronze medal in the women’s 3000 m steeplechase, while G. Ladisa Munzeza won bronze in the 20 km walk category. In the women’s T13 long jump, B. Shimirayi won a bronze medal, and R. Mulambavu Tiba and Y. Mokoka won bronze medals respectively in the javelin throw and the discus throw. Finally, in the women’s 100m T11-12 discipline, R. Mwamini Bahezire won the bronze medal.
Freestyle wrestling was also an area of success for the DRC, with two silver medals won in the 62 kg and 55 kg categories, as well as a bronze medal in the 50 kg category. In African wrestling, a female team consisting of D. Boenga Eyale, N. Kiengi, P. Madunu, M. Mbala and R. Tabora won the bronze medal.
But Congolese success is not limited to sports competitions. In the cultural field, women have also shone. In the creation dance competition, a team composed of three women out of five members won the silver medal.
These exceptional results enabled the DRC to obtain a record number of medals during these IX Games of La Francophonie. Through freestyle and Olympic wrestling, athletics and Para athletics, judo, African wrestling and table tennis, the country won a total of 28 medals, including 9 gold, 14 silver and 5 bronze. A historic performance for the DRC, which had won only 3 medals in the previous edition.
This sporting success testifies to the commitment and talent of Congolese athletes, especially women, who have brought honor to their country in various disciplines. These remarkable performances are a source of pride for the Democratic Republic of Congo and highlight the sporting potential of the country.
Through these Games of La Francophonie, the DRC has demonstrated its ability to shine on the international scene and to position itself as a major player in French-speaking sport. Hopefully, these successes will inspire new generations of Congolese athletes and encourage gender equality in sport, empowering women to thrive and excel in their discipline