Kongo River Festival 2023 Highlights: A Celebration of Ecotourism and Sustainable Development
From July 11 to 16, 2023, the Kongo Central province in the Democratic Republic of Congo hosted the third edition of the Kongo River festival. This annual event, focused on ecotourism and sustainable development, has attracted many visitors who have come to discover the wonders of this unique region.
The tourist part of the festival allowed participants to visit exceptional sites such as the Botanical Garden of Kinsantu, offering an immersion in the local biodiversity. Marshal Bridge and Mvula Forest also mesmerized visitors with their natural beauty. Kumbi Beach and the Mangrove Marine Park offered moments of relaxation and discovery of marine ecosystems. Finally, the shell island transported the participants through the history of the region.
The festival was also marked by a stimulating scientific conference, which brought together experts in the field to share their knowledge and perspectives on the sustainable development of the region. Constructive exchanges took place, highlighting the environmental and social issues of the preservation of the Congo River.
But the Kongo River festival was not only about learning and reflection. It also provided moments of entertainment and celebration. Several artists highlighted the cultural richness of the region, with performances of dance and traditional music. Among them, NMB la Panthère, the Kongo Central Branch of the Congolese National Theater Company and the Owele Musical Group offered remarkable performances.
The highlight of the festive part of the festival was the closing concert by Congolese artist Ngiama Makanda Werrason and his orchestra Wenge Musica Maison Mère. This moment of musical effervescence electrified the crowd and marked a climax to this third edition of the Kongo River festival.
Vincent Kunda, the initiator of the festival, expressed his gratitude to all the participants for their presence, their support and their contribution to the success of this event. He stressed the importance of preserving the region’s natural resources and promoting sustainable development that benefits local people.
The fourth edition of the Kongo River festival is already scheduled for July 2024, promising new discoveries and enriching experiences for visitors. This festival continues to be an unmissable event to showcase the treasures of the Kongo Central province and promote ecotourism and sustainable development in the region