The IXth Games of La Francophonie in Kinshasa are already being talked about. While the opening of the competition is scheduled for this Friday, July 28 until August 6, information has just fallen: the secretary general of the International Organization of La Francophonie, Louise Mushikiwabo, will not be present.
Several sources, both from the coordination of the games and from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, explain that the Congolese government has not officially invited the secretary general of the OIF, as well as other members of this organization. This decision would be motivated by the security crisis that exists between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda.
Beyond the absence of Louise Mushikiwabo, Rwanda has also decided not to move its athletes and musical artists for this competition.
Despite two postponements, first due to the pandemic, then due to infrastructure, the Francophonie Games in Kinshasa are finally ready to begin. The necessary efforts have finally been made, the sports facilities are ready and the games village has been set up at the University of Kinshasa.
The Head of State himself visited the sites this weekend and was satisfied with the progress of the work.
However, the absence of the general secretary of the OIF and the Rwandan representatives brings a political dimension to these games. The security crisis between the two countries highlights the persistent tensions in the region, and raises questions about the real desire for cooperation within La Francophonie.
Despite everything, the Games of La Francophonie represent an opportunity for Kinshasa to make itself known on the international scene and to promote the cultural and sporting diversity of the region.
It remains to be seen how big that absence will be and whether it will affect how the competition plays out. One thing is certain, these games of La Francophonie in Kinshasa will be marked by this political controversy, which reminds us that sport and culture are never completely dissociated from geopolitical reality.
All eyes will therefore be on Kinshasa, where these games of La Francophonie will take place, with or without the presence of the Secretary General of the OIF