…Event celebrates both as drivers of dialogue, development
Under the high patronage of Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, president, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kinshasa will host the first-ever World Music and Tourism Festival.
The UN Tourism will join the event as a supporting partner, reinforcing the shared value of culture and tourism for sustainable
development and for building mutual understanding and peace.
To be held under the theme “The Rumba Route for Peace,” the festival will highlight how music can connect cultures, strengthen communities, and create opportunities. It will also support national efforts to promote cultural heritage, grow the creative economy and build peace through cultural exchange.
Read also: FMACTCE unveil plans to boost Nigeria’s tourism, Detty December festivities
The festival will spotlight Congolese Rumba, recognised by UNESCO in 2021 and its role in shaping identity and tourism. Meanwhile, the UN Tourism’s involvement is part of wider efforts to link cultural assets to inclusive growth and cross-cultural exchange across Africa.
The three-day festival will feature a programme of culture and collaboration and will be hosted at the Central African Cultural and Arts Centre (CCAPAC) from July 16-18, 2025.
It will also feature roundtables on: musical diplomacy for peace; copyrights and fair pay for artists; music and destination branding; youth and digital innovation in culture, as well as a cultural village and exhibition centre.
Others include: performances from Congolese and international artists, a “fair play” masterclass for artists and entrepreneurs and a Rumba-themed welcome, gala dinner, and cultural tours.
Didier M’Pambia Musanga, Minister of Tourism, Democratic Republic of Congo, stated: “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 mix of music, dialogue, and networking reflects the festival’s commitment to inclusive development, a goal shared by UN Tourism, which supports culture as a driver of sustainable growth and shared prosperity.
Read also: From West Africa, Kriol Jazz Festival expands to Águeda, Portugal
It will also offer a veritable platform for exchanges, bringing together stakeholders from governments, organisations, businesses, and
civil society. Confirmed partners include: UNESCO, ARIPO, Sony Music Entertainment, Sound Diplomacy, and cultural leaders from Africa, Latin America, and Europe.
Speaking on the festival, Zurab Pololikashvili, secretary-general, UN Tourism, stated: “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.”
The festival is open to the public, professionals, and youth, and invites all to explore the intersection of music, identity, and tourism. From performances to policy talks, it offers a powerful reminder of how culture can serve as a bridge for peace and connection.
