Kinshasa, April 21st, 2026 (CPA).– An exhibition titled “Maître d’école…” is scheduled from April 24th to 26th, 2026 in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, at the National Rumba Museum, to mark the 10th anniversary of the death of Congolese singer Papa Wemba, according to a press release received Tuesday by CPA. “It has been 10 years since Papa Wemba left us, leaving behind an immense void in the African and global music landscape. If the man is gone, the artist remains more alive than ever in hearts, rhythms and memories,” the statement from the National Rumba Museum read.
“On this occasion, the National Rumba Museum pays tribute to this legend through three days of commemoration, from April 24 to 26, 2026,” the source added. According to the program, the commemorative activities will include a celebration of his musical legacy featuring young talents and renowned artists. Dance, painting, *la sape* (elegant fashion culture), and a film screening are also planned. The objective of the event, the document specifies, is to honor this icon of Congolese music, transmit his story and keep Rumba alive. Located in the former residence of Papa Wemba in the Ngaliema municipality of Kinshasa, the National Rumba Museum is intended to be a living space dedicated to the soul and cultural history of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, celebrating Rumba through exhibitions, archives, fashion and music. Papa Wemba, whose real name was Jules Shungu Wembadio Pene Kikumba, died on April 24th, 2016 in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. He remains a major figure of Congolese rumba and world music, whose artistic genius left a lasting mark in Africa and worldwide.