Kinshasa, May 14th, 2026 (CPA).- The clarification of the administrative procedures for artists from the Democratic Republic of Congo to obtain European visas has been on the agenda of a meeting in Kinshasa between the Ministry in charge of Culture and the Political Section of the Belgian Embassy, according to a press release received on Thursday by CPA.
“The Minister in charge of Culture, Arts and Heritage, Yolande Elebe, has received in her office Ms Lot Debruyne, Deputy Head of Mission and Head of the Political Section of the Belgian Embassy in DRC. Discussions have focused on clarifying the administrative procedures relating to the mobility of artists, with the aim of facilitating their travel within the Schengen area (Europe) and supporting the international dissemination of Congolese cultural content and talent,” it is read. At the conclusion of their discussions, the ministry’s statement has indicated, the two states have committed to organise an awareness-raising session for artists on this crucial issue regarding procedures to facilitate Schengen visas from DRC. “They have also raised the issue of the return of Congolese cultural property and human remains held in Belgium.” Last April, the same source has reported, Minister Yolande had held a working meeting with the Director of the French Institute in Kinshasa and the Project Manager of the EUNIC DRC cluster, regarding the identification of artists in the Ministry in charge of Culture’s official database. This meeting had the aim of facilitating the official recognition of Congolese creators, particularly when concluding contracts with the French Institute and processing visa applications. And to continue: “The meeting has particularly focused on the mobility of artists, a strategic lever for cultural influence, the professionalization of stakeholders and the development of the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI).” According to the press release, the Minister in charge of Culture has also seized the opportunity to present the main reforms undertaken by the Government for the cultural sector, starting with the digital register of artists, which is accessible on the website of the Social Assistance Fund for Congolese Artists and Writers (FASAEC). “This system determines their access to social assistance and international cooperation schemes. It is a social assistance mechanism that includes health cover and strengthens collaboration with the various stakeholders to facilitate the mobility of Congolese artists, particularly through the improvement of visa procedures,” it is concluded.