Ejiro Efenudu
The city of Kinshasa is alive with music, culture, and celebration as it welcomes the first edition of the World Music and Tourism Festival, a landmark global event themed “The Rumba Route for Peace.”
The festival brings together world leaders, artists, cultural innovators, and young talents to promote peace, cooperation, and inclusive tourism through the universal language of music.
Day 1 Highlights: Culture, Celebration, and Commitment
The opening day was a colorful and inspiring celebration. Key highlights included:
- Opening Ceremony – UN Tourism officially launched the event, reaffirming its support for a youth-led, creative, and sustainable future.
- 100 Scholarships Awarded – Through the UN Tourism Academy, scholarships were granted to students and young professionals seeking careers in cultural tourism, music, and the creative economy.
Launch of the Cultural Village – A vibrant space where visitors experienced:
- Congolese fashion shows featuring traditional and modern styles
- Art and craft exhibitions by local artisans
- Gastronomy stalls showcasing traditional Congolese dishes
- A Rumba dance initiation, offering hands-on experience with the UNESCO-recognized musical tradition
The Cultural Village served as a dynamic platform for cultural exchange, heritage promotion, and community pride.
Looking Ahead: Day 2 Agenda
Day two of the festival will focus on practical tools and fair practices for creatives, especially in music-driven tourism. Highlights include:
- Interactive Roundtables – Experts and young voices will discuss how music can be used to build bridges, empower youth, and boost local economies through sustainable tourism.
- “Fair Play” Masterclass – A training session that covers:
- Copyright and intellectual property (IP) rights
- Fair revenue models for artists
- Protecting local content in global markets.
- These sessions aim to support a more ethical and inclusive creative industry.
- A Global Message: Music Connects. Tourism Empowers.
With “The Rumba Route for Peace” as its guiding theme, the festival sends a powerful message: music is more than rhythm—it is a tool for healing and connection. Tourism is more than travel—it is a path to opportunity and pride.
Kinshasa, known for its deep musical roots, is proving that cultural heritage can be both a symbol of identity and a bridge for peace. As the beats of Rumba echo through the capital, the festival showcases how creativity and culture can unite people across borders.
Stay tuned as the World Music and Tourism Festival continues to inspire, educate, and celebrate the power of cultural exchange.
