The first World Music and Tourism Festival

Under the patronage of His Excellency Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the first World Music and Tourism Festival will take place in the capital city of Kinshasa.

The United Nations Tourism Agency (UN Tourism) participates in the event as a supporting partner, reinforcing the shared values of culture and tourism for sustainable development, building mutual understanding and peace.

With the theme “The Rumba Road for Peace,” the festival will highlight how music can connect cultures, unite communities, and create opportunities.

The festival also supports national efforts to promote cultural heritage, develop the creative economy, and build peace through cultural exchange.

Music, heritage, and innovation

The festival will showcase Congolese Rumba, recognized by UNESCO in 2021, and its role in shaping the country's identity and tourism.

UN Tourism's involvement is part of a broader effort to connect cultural heritage with inclusive growth and cultural exchange across Africa.

The three-day cultural and collaborative program is being held at the Central African Cultural and Arts Centre (CCAPAC). The festival will feature roundtable discussions on: Music diplomacy for peace; Copyright and fair artist pay; Music and destination branding; Youth and digital innovation in culture.

In addition, there will be activities at the Cultural Village and Exhibition Center; performances by Congolese and international artists; an intensive "Fair Play" workshop for artists and entrepreneurs; a Rumba-themed welcome event, a Gala dinner, and cultural tours for festival delegates…

As His Excellency Didier M'Pambia Musanga, Minister of Tourism of the Democratic Republic of Congo, stated: “The festival will bring together many voices to explore how music shapes lives, promotes economic opportunities and, through innovation and technology, fosters closer connections between people.”

The combination of music, dialogue, and interaction reflects the Festival's commitment to inclusive development, a shared goal of the United Nations Tourism Programme, supporting culture as a driver of sustainable growth and shared prosperity.

A solid and open platform for exchange.

The festival brings together stakeholders from: governments, organizations, businesses, cultural managers, experts, scientists, artists, and civil society. Confirmed partners include UNESCO, ARIPO, Sony Music Entertainment, Sound Diplomacy, and cultural leaders from Africa, Latin America, and Europe.

UN Secretary-General for Tourism Zurab Pololikashvili stated: “Music touches the hearts of people everywhere. This festival is a precious opportunity to celebrate the creativity of the Congolese people, while supporting local development, regional cooperation and international understanding.”

“The United Nations Tourism Organization is proud to support an initiative that reflects the shared potential of tourism and culture to promote peace, build bridges and unlock development opportunities,” said Zurab Pololikashvili.

Open to the public, professionals, and youth, the festival invites everyone to explore the intersection of music, identity, and travel.

From performances to policy talks, the Festival offers a powerful reminder of how culture can serve as a bridge for peace and connection.

Source: https://baovanhoa.vn/du-lich/le-hoi-am-nhac-va-du-lich-the-gioi-lan-dau-tien-151307.html