The Democratic Republic of Congo is making a bold statement with its first World Music and Tourism Festival. Through this event, it aims to become a leading cultural force in Africa while simultaneously working to build up its still-developing tourism sector.

The World Music and Tourism Festival (FMMT) energized Kinshasa from July 16 to 18, 2025. Centered around the theme  “The Rumba Route to Peace,” this inaugural event comes nearly four years after Congolese rumba earned its spot on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2021.

Over the three days it latest, its transformed the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo vibrated with concerts and exhibitions. Iconic city spots like Place des Artistes, the Papa Wemba monument, and the Limete Interchange all became lively open-air stages. 

Cultural and Political Ambition

It was opened by DRC President Félix-Antoine Tshiseked who highlighted its strategic importance, which goes beyond just artistic expression. The festival “fully embodies our determination to mobilize the nation’s cultural and creative forces, to strengthen national unity, and to project, with pride and ambition, a renewed, positive, and inspiring image of the DRC on the international stage,” he said

Culture Minister Yolande Elebe Ma Ndembo echoed this sentiment, stating: "Celebrating rumba here in Kinshasa is a fluid, pure and universal recognition of the grandeur of Congolese heritage. It is crucial to recall that behind these activities lies a major issue for our nation: affirming our cultural sovereignty. Culture is a formidable, peaceful weapon."

Following in their footsteps, Tourism Minister Didier M’Pambia Musanga positioned the festival as a tool to boost the country’s standing both regionally and internationally. "It’s about increasing the country’s visibility, promoting its image under the label ‘DRC, Heart of Africa,’ and integrating music into the tourism offering through cultural itineraries. We are also aiming for a tangible economic impact for operators and restaurateurs in the sector," he added.

Building an International Showcase

Despite its grand ambitions, the international presence at this first edition was limited. The Central Africa Cultural and Arts Center, the main venue, primarily showcased local artists. Only two foreign performers, one from Angola and one from Kenya, joined the celebrations.

Cultural journalist Mugisho Bashomba of Ouragan.cd, quoted by French TV TV5 Monde, pointed out this discrepancy from the original plans. He recalled, "During the press conference, it was clearly stated that the lineup would mix Congolese artists with international guests from at least ten countries. But in the end, only two foreign artists appeared on the list."

Kinshasa has been recognized by UNESCO as a "Creative City" since 2015. The FMMT has the potential to become a cornerstone of Congolese soft power if future editions can truly expand their international reach. By blending diplomatic ambition, national identity, and efforts to develop the tourism sector, the festival is laying the groundwork for a long-term cultural strategy. The real challenge now is to build on this initial momentum.

Servan Ahougnon