AS Zimbabwe gears for this year’s Francophonie Week which kicks off tomorrow until March 27, the Congolese and French embassies will showcase some of their country’s latest films, musical concerts, shows and other activities.
by Tinashe Sibanda
“The Francophonies are just as important as the EU because you will realise that over 890 million people across the continent are associated with the French language,” French ambassador Laurent Delahousse said yesterday at a Press conference.
He said with French-speaking people across the globe, it was a sign that learning and knowing the French language was important for a great future in a continent where the language is amongst the two major official languages.
Delahousse added that it was important for people to learn foreign languages such as French as it was an added advantage in the job market.
Congolese ambassador Mwana Nanga Mwampanga who was also present at the event said such events promoted cultural and linguistic diversity.
“DRC happens to be the biggest country in the Sadc region so there certainly is need for people to learn French as well as English as they are both the most commonly used languages,” he said.
This two-week celebration aims to bring free cultural activities that entertain, educate and improve cross-cultural understanding, to both the Zimbabwean and the international community.
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“Film enthusiasts will be treated to a film festival featuring the latest Francophone movies. With English subtitles, the films can be enjoyed by all,” said Alliance Française de Harare director Franck Chabasseur.
He said screenings will be held at Alliance Francaisein Harare and Bulawayo for free.
Audiences will also enjoy the Sing Your Way to Paris competition sponsored by Bon Marché.
“I am honoured to be an ambassador in this as it opens up doors of access for the international market,” said local musician Eve Kawadza.
Another talented guitarist, Tariro NeGitare, said such events as well as knowledge of the French language certainly opened doors of cultural exchange between locals and people from French speaking communities.
Celebrated musician Victor Kunonga who attended the occasion said it is always a great experience to participate in such activities as they were both educational and entertaining.
Schoolchildren, teachers and parents will also have fun at this festival where a Dictation and French Poetry competition, Quiz, Talent Show will bring together local, public and private schools that offer French. Similar events will also be organised for Bulawayo.
The International Organisation of La Francophonie was created in 1970 with a mission to embody active solidarity between its 80 Member States, respecting cultural and linguistic diversity and promoting the French language, peace and sustainable development.
