The 2023 Francophonie Games in Kinshasa have left an indelible mark on the history of La Francophonie. Despite doubts and predictions of failure, the event went exceptionally well, surpassing all expectations.
From the opening of the Games, the Stade des Martyrs was packed, despite its 80,000 seats. The presence of the Head of State, Félix Antoine Tshisekedi, throughout the event, reinforced the Congolese government’s support and commitment to this celebration of Francophone youth. His regular visit to accommodation, competition sites and cultural sites was a concrete demonstration of his involvement.
The organization of the Games of La Francophonie was the main subject of the meetings of the Council of Ministers for several weeks. This shows the importance attached to this event by the Congolese government. The successful holding of the Games is therefore a collective victory for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has risen to the challenge despite the obstacles.
The Director of the International Committee of the Francophonie Games, Zeina Mina, expressed her amazement at the success of the event. According to her, there was a “Congolese miracle” and the Games of La Francophonie took place in very good conditions. This statement from an international authority testifies to the excellence of the organization and the enthusiasm of the public.
On the sporting level, Morocco dominated the medals, showing its supremacy in several disciplines. But the Democratic Republic of Congo also made a remarkable impression by climbing into the top 10 of the most medal-winning nations in the Kinshasa edition. Outstanding performances in individual sports such as boxing, table tennis and wrestling have been the pride of the country.
However, this success should not be fleeting. The DRC must now capitalize on the modern infrastructure inherited from the Games to develop its sporting talents in all disciplines. It is essential that the government put in place a long-term program for the establishment and modernization of sports and cultural infrastructures across the provinces, in order to give many talents the opportunity to flourish.
The Games of La Francophonie 2023 in Kinshasa will be remembered as a memorable and successful edition. They proved that nothing is impossible for the Congo and opened new perspectives for the development of sport and culture in the country. The competition showed the determination and talent of French-speaking athletes, thus strengthening ties between French-speaking countries and highlighting the excellence of La Francophonie.
In conclusion, the Games of La Francophonie 2023 in Kinshasa were a real success, marking the history of La Francophonie. The Democratic Republic of the Congo can be proud of this success and must continue to invest in sport and culture to give its talents every chance to shine on the international scale. The Games demonstrated the strength of La Francophonie and left a lasting impression in the minds of participants and the public