The recent announcement by the Democratic Republic of Congo not to organize an official ceremony for the International Day of La Francophonie on March 20, 2024 due to the difficult context generated by the conflicts in the east of the country, particularly with Rwanda, raises deep questions about the DRC’s belonging to the French-speaking community.
Despite this decision, recognition of the importance of French and the Francophonie in the DRC remains undeniable. Indeed, the country is the largest French-speaking country after France according to the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF).
This situation offers the opportunity to take a critical look at the DRC’s engagement within the Francophonie and the advantages it can draw from it. The General Delegate for the Francophonie of the DRC, Mr. MABIALA Ma-Umba, encourages in-depth reflection on the country’s contribution within French-speaking bodies, as an instrument serving its strategic interests.
In place of traditional celebrations, special television programs on the theme “The Francophonie we want” will be broadcast, in partnership with RTNC. These broadcasts aim to highlight the benefits of belonging to the Francophonie and to discuss the actions necessary to strengthen the position of the DRC within this space.
Beyond the dissensions with the OIF, the DRC remains a full member of this international organization bringing together 88 member states and governments. It underlines the role of the OIF as a framework for political consultation and a space for cooperation for the development of its members.
Despite existing tensions, civil society is invited to continue the activities planned for Francophonie Week, thus highlighting the importance of solidarity and cooperation within the global French-speaking community.
This decision by the DRC not to hold an official ceremony for the International Day of La Francophonie opens the way to a more in-depth reflection on the issues linked to its membership in this global linguistic and cultural community.