Located in the 3rd arrondissement of the Central African Republic’s capital, Bangui, is a popular neighborhood known as Km5, or “Cinq-Kilos” to locals. This predominantly Muslim neighborhood experienced a period of dynamism and diversity between the 60s and 90s. Today, I am taking you to discover this place that was once vibrant with life.
While walking through the streets of Km5, I had the chance to meet Aladji Cabara, a resident of the neighborhood. With nostalgia, he remembers the time when KM5 was the center of the atmosphere in Bangui. He talks about the many dance bars that littered the streets, such as the Punch Coco, the Étoile and the Rex. These places were animated by large orchestras such as Vibro Succès, Tropicale Fiesta and Centrafrica Jazz, which made the inhabitants dance all night long. Aladji remembers with emotion this time when the cost of living was cheaper and the Christian and Muslim communities lived in perfect harmony.
Another resident, Amadou Roufaï, talks about the gastronomic appeal of Km5. He remembers méchoui, a traditional dish made from grilled lamb, which was renowned as the best in town. Central Africans from the diaspora returning to Bangui made an obligatory stop at Km5 to taste this delicacy before returning home. The evenings lasted late into the night, in a friendly atmosphere where people came to eat, drink and enjoy the music.
Music was indeed a central element of life at Km5. The Sagbado football field, once the crossroads of sape – a fashion movement highlighting sartorial elegance -, hosted dance evenings where everyone took care to look beautiful with hairstyles made from shea oil and elegant outfits. The rhythms of Ndombolo, Rumba, Motenguènè and Jazz made the neighborhood vibrate.
Unfortunately, the years of crisis marked a decline for Km5. Dance bars were destroyed, harmony between communities was broken and nightlife lost its luster. However, the spirit of Km5 remains present in the memory of residents who remember with emotion this time when the neighborhood was the meeting place for celebration, sharing and cultural diversity.
Today, despite the difficulties, Km5 retains a special place in the hearts of Central Africans. The residents are working to rebuild a neighborhood where harmony will find its place and where music and conviviality will regain their rights.
In conclusion, the Km5 district in Bangui experienced a flourishing era in the 60s and 90s, marked by cultural diversity, music and conviviality. Although the neighborhood has gone through difficult times, it remains anchored in the memory of residents, who aspire to rediscover this unique atmosphere which made Km5 a lively and cosmopolitan place to live.