The Democratic Republic of Congo is set to host a book launch event in Goma, a city located in the eastern part of the country. The event, scheduled for Friday, will see the unveiling of a book titled "L'Hymne à la grâce," a collection of works written by authors from both sides of the Congo River. The book is a tribute to Franco Luambo Makiadi, a renowned guitarist who left a lasting legacy in the music industry.

The book launch coincides with the 5th anniversary of the inscription of Congolese rumba on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. The publication is a collaborative effort by Éditions Mlimani, with contributions from 12 authors, led by Blaise Ndala. The book is an anthology that explores the musical and literary dimensions of Franco Luambo Makiadi's legacy.

A session of decryption with readers and panelists is also planned to discuss the book's themes and significance. This event aims to provide a platform for readers to engage with the authors and explore the cultural importance of Franco Luambo Makiadi's work. The book launch is expected to draw attention to the rich cultural heritage of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The publication of "L'Hymne à la grâce" is also a tribute to the 70th anniversary of the creation of the OK Jazz group, founded in 1956 by Franco Luambo Makiadi. The book features works by notable authors such as N'Anza Tata, Mukoko Ngondo, Ntumba Biayi, and Sami Tchak, among others. These authors were selected as part of a literary project called "Chœur à corps pour Franco."

Franco Luambo Makiadi, born in Sona-Bata, Kongo Central Province, passed away on October 12, 1989, in Namur, Belgium, at the age of 51. Despite his passing, his musical legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and music lovers. The book launch event in Goma is an opportunity for fans to celebrate his life and work.

The book "L'Hymne à la grâce" is a significant contribution to the literary and cultural landscape of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It highlights the importance of preserving and promoting the country's cultural heritage. The event in Goma is expected to attract a large audience interested in literature, music, and culture.

The Congolese press agency, ACP, reported that the book launch event will take place on Friday in Goma. The event is a celebration of Franco Luambo Makiadi's life and legacy, and it aims to promote the rich cultural heritage of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Key points

  • The book "L'Hymne à la grâce" is a tribute to Franco Luambo Makiadi's legacy and features contributions from 12 authors.
  • The book launch event in Goma coincides with the 5th anniversary of the inscription of Congolese rumba on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list.
  • The publication is also a celebration of the 70th anniversary of the creation of the OK Jazz group, founded by Franco Luambo Makiadi.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.