Title: The 9th Francophonie Games in Kinshasa: A success despite the challenges
Introduction :
The 9th Games of La Francophonie which took place in Kinshasa, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, were a true “Congolese miracle”. Despite postponements, logistical uncertainties and final adjustments, the event was a success. Zeina Mina, director of the Comité international des Jeux de la Francophonie, shared her views in an interview with ACP. These games will inspire new initiatives, particularly in the organization of urban sports, thus strengthening their socio-educational mission in the French-speaking world.
Results of the games and satisfactory participation rate:
Despite the difficulties encountered, the concerns and successive postponements to 2021 and 2022, the 9th Games of La Francophonie were successfully organized. With the support of the Francophonie authorities, the host country took up the challenge and saw the participation of 3,533 people, including 1,810 athletes and artists. Thirty-seven countries were represented at this major event. Despite initial accommodation issues, these were later resolved. In addition, several Francophonie records have been broken in athletics thanks to the quality of the infrastructure, notably the complete renovation of the track.
The enthusiasm of the spectators and the “Congolese miracle”:
One of the striking aspects of these games was the enthusiasm of the public. People jostled to attend new events and applauded all the participants, whether Congolese, French, Romanian or Lebanese. Zeina Mina underlines that the fact that these games were able to take place despite logistical obstacles demonstrates the “Congolese miracle” and proves that “the impossible is not Congolese”. This shows the determination and resilience of the host country.
The socio-educational mission of the Francophonie Games:
Beyond their competitive dimension, the Games of La Francophonie have a real socio-educational mission. They enable the training of human resources, referees, judges and event professionals. In addition, these games contribute to the development of infrastructure and stimulate development strategies and physical education programs. For the next edition, particular attention will be paid to urban sports, thus offering the host country the possibility of choosing disciplines according to its own development strategy.
Conclusion :
The 9th Games of La Francophonie in Kinshasa were a real success, despite the challenges encountered along the way. Thanks to the determination of the host country and the support of the Francophonie authorities, these games brought together participants from all over the world and inspired new initiatives in the organization of urban sports.. Beyond competition, these games have an important social and educational mission, contributing to the development of infrastructure and the strengthening of physical education programs. The Francophonie Games play an essential role in promoting cultural and sporting diversity within the French-speaking community.