Kinshasa Calls on East Africa to Experience Congo’s Rumba at Music and Tourism Festival

The Democratic Republic of the Congo will showcase its musical heritage and tourism offering at the second World Music and Tourism Festival (FMMT), taking place in Kinshasa from 8–10 October 2026. Organised in collaboration with UN Tourism, with StoryArc Africa supporting delivery, the festival aims to attract international visitors and encourage investment through music and cultural exchange.

Following an inaugural edition featuring Fally Ipupa and Kenya’s Savara Mudigi, this year’s announced lineup includes Mbilia Bel, Ferré Gola, Werrason, Sam Mangwana, Zaiko Langa Langa, Héritier Wata, Roga Roga and Meiway.

For Rumba lovers across East Africa and beyond, the festival is an invitation to take the music off their playlists and experience it in its cultural home. Bringing celebrated artists to Kinshasa’s stages, FMMT combines live performances with the city’s food, art and vibrant culture, giving fans a compelling reason to travel and discover the people and traditions behind the sound.

“Rumba is one of Congo’s greatest cultural treasures. Through this festival, we invite East Africa and the world to experience our music, discover our tourism destinations and connect with our people,” said Didier Mazenga Mukanzu, Minister of Tourism of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Rumba connects Congo-Kinshasa, Congo-Brazzaville, Angola and the Caribbean, particularly Cuba, through a shared musical history. Today, it continues to unite generations and communities, preserving cultural identity while inspiring new forms of expression.

Its inscription on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2021 underscores the importance of safeguarding this living tradition. That recognition complements the festival’s collaboration with UN Tourism, connecting cultural preservation with sustainable tourism and economic opportunities.

Alongside traditional, urban, folk and Rumba performances, FMMT will feature cultural experiences and discussions on copyright, digital innovation and youth participation in the creative economy, showcasing how music can bring visitors, artists and communities together.

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