• RFI confirmed the end of “Couleurs Tropicales” following Claudy Siar’s departure after 31 years.

• The move follows a series of high-profile exits within France Médias Monde, including Alain Foka.

• RFI said it will expand its music strategy and promote African and Caribbean talent through new and existing programs.

Persistent rumors had pointed to a likely end to the collaboration between Guadeloupean journalist Claudy Siar and France Médias Monde, the French public broadcasting group that includes France 24, Monte Carlo Doualiya, and RFI. The group has now confirmed the development.

Claudy Siar will no longer host “Couleurs Tropicales” on Radio France Internationale (RFI). RFI disclosed the information on Thursday, March 26, in an official statement.

“Couleurs Tropicales was much more than a show: it was a link, a connection. It was a bridge between the African continent and its diasporas, one of the rare voices that managed to blend music, culture and history with such sincerity […] This week marked the final days of broadcasting…,” Siar said on the program’s Facebook page.

Siar built a strong reputation on RFI’s airwaves since 1995. He connected African and Caribbean audiences through music programming that promoted Afro-centric culture. He exits after 31 years of service.

Following Gilles Obringer

Siar had already announced his departure from France 24 in September 2024, where he hosted “À l’Affiche.” He previously served as interministerial delegate for equal opportunities for French overseas citizens and advocated for his community. His resignation followed the departure of Cameroonian journalist Alain Foka, known for the radio program “Archives d’Afrique.”

Siar succeeded Gilles Obringer, who died on February 4, 1995, as host of “Couleurs Tropicales.” He also carried forward his predecessor’s editorial vision. Obringer, a prominent RFI figure, produced “Canal Tropical,” a popular program dedicated to world and mixed music. Colleagues nicknamed him “Gilles l’Africain.” Authorities scattered his ashes off Gorée Island in Senegal in line with his final wishes.

What Comes After “Couleurs Tropicales”?

RFI said the end of “Couleurs Tropicales” does not signal the end of music programming for diaspora audiences. “RFI will continue its development with numerous projects, driven by the same passion to share and bring people together,” the statement said.

The broadcaster said it will refine its music strategy to continue promoting African and Caribbean talent. Existing programs such as “Légendes Urbaines,” “BPM—Bonnes Pulsations du Monde,” “Musique du monde,” and “L’épopée des musiques noires” will support that effort. In addition, “Afro-Club Deluxe,” hosted by Hervé Mandina, also known as DJ FaceMaker, will switch to a daily format starting Monday, March 30.

RFI thanked Claudy Siar for his decades-long contribution to the group’s success. The broadcaster said it will air a special program soon to allow listeners of “Couleurs Tropicales” to connect with the host one final time.

This article was initially published in French by Ubrick F. Quenum

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum