Kinshasa, November 5th, 2025 (CPA). –A call for the reconstruction and improvement of the logistical conditions of the National Museum of Inongo, in the province of Mai-Ndombe in the Democratic Republic of Congo, in order to facilitate research and the preservation of art objects, was launched on Wednesday by the museum’s secretary during an interview with the CPA. « We are asking the Congolese government to build a museum worthy of the name, as well as suitable means of transport for artefacts and works of art. Given that Mai-Ndombe is almost an island, it is essential to have adequate means of transport to facilitate the collection and movement of objects in the eight territories of the province, » said Didier Babongo Boleme, national secretary of the Inongo Museum. ‘Since the museum was founded, most of the objects and works of art on display have come from personal contributions by staff members. The payment of the plot of land on which the museum stands remains a very heavy monthly expense for each staff member, but it is essential for the smooth running of the site,’ he added. According to him, having their own plot of land would make it possible to create appropriate museum conditions, similar to other provincial museums, in order to ensure the optimal conservation of works of art and artefacts.
‘Among the difficulties are the lack of in-depth training for staff, as the museum is still too young, and insufficient subsidies for its proper functioning. We want to have our own land so that we can be comfortable, as in other museums,’ he insisted. He continued: ‘The National Museum of Inongo houses ancestral artefacts such as flutes, likembés, traditional guitars, oars, canoes, mats, coin moulds made by our ancestors, tam-tams and other emblematic artefacts.’ It should be noted that this museum occupies a historic site once frequented by members of the Belgian royal family, including King Paul Maurice. The National Museum of Inongo is located in the province of Mai-Ndombe and is an essential part of the cultural heritage for local memory and history. ACP/