Kinshasa Sets the Stage: Inaugural World Music and Tourism Festival to Celebrate Peace and Heritage

11 July 2025, Kinshasa – The vibrant heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo is set to welcome artists, policymakers and cultural enthusiasts for a groundbreaking event: the first-ever World Music and Tourism Festival. Scheduled for 16–18 July 2025 under the High Patronage of President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, the Festival promises to blend the power of music with the transformative potential of tourism.

Supported by UN Tourism, the Festival aims to show how cultural heritage can serve as a tool for dialogue, peace and inclusive development. Aptly themed “The Rumba Route for Peace”, the three-day gathering will shine a spotlight on Congolese Rumba, recognised by UNESCO in 2021 as an intangible cultural treasure.

At the Central African Cultural and Arts Centre (CCAPAC) in Kinshasa, the programme offers more than performances. It includes roundtable discussions on musical diplomacy, fair pay for artists, the role of music in destination branding and the potential of digital innovation for young creatives. A Cultural Village and Exhibition Centre will further showcase Congolese and international talent, alongside masterclasses and cultural tours that invite visitors to explore the rich rhythms and stories of the Congo.

H.E. Didier M’Pambia Musanga, Minister of Tourism of the Democratic Republic of Congo, highlighted the Festival’s ambition, saying:

“The Festival will bring together voices to explore how music shapes lives, drives economic opportunity, and through innovation and technology, fosters greater connection among people.”

The Festival has secured partnerships with UNESCO, the African Regional Intellectual Property Organisation (ARIPO), Sony Music Entertainment, Sound Diplomacy and cultural representatives from Africa, Latin America and Europe. Together, these organisations will help frame the conversation around culture’s role in economic growth, cross-cultural understanding and sustainable tourism.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasised the global importance of the event.

“Music speaks to people everywhere. This Festival is a valuable opportunity to celebrate Congolese creativity while supporting local development, regional cooperation and international understanding. UN Tourism is proud to support an initiative that reflects the shared potential of tourism and culture to foster peace, build bridges and unlock opportunities,” he noted.

Open to the public, cultural professionals and young people alike, the Festival invites attendees to experience how music and tourism can spark dialogue and deepen connections across borders. From soulful Rumba performances to policy discussions and workshops, the event offers a timely reminder of the power of culture to build bridges in a divided world.

For more information, visit the official sites of UN Tourism (www.unwto.org) and the Ministry of Tourism of the Democratic Republic of Congo(www.tourisme.gouv.cd).

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