The film “Lumumba, the return of a hero” will mark a historic moment in Kinshasa, with its presentation at the Center Wallonie Bruxelles. This film, directed by Quentin Noirfalisse, Benoît Feyt and Dieudo Hamadi, explores the political celebrations surrounding the repatriation of the tooth of Patrice Lumumba, an emblematic figure of Congolese independence.
This event is of great importance for the Congolese people, because it marks Lumumba’s return to his country, more than 61 years after his assassination. As Congo’s first prime minister after independence in 1960, Lumumba played a crucial role in the country’s history. Yet his life was cruelly cut short and his assassination left a deep scar in Congo’s history.
The film highlights the historical events surrounding Lumumba’s life and death. It also questions the legacy left by this emblematic figure and its impact on the decolonization process in Belgium, the former colonial power of the Congo. This artistic approach allows us to reflect on persistent political and social issues, linked to colonial and post-colonial history.
Lumumba’s tooth, the last vestige of his physical presence, was officially returned to his family by the Belgian government in 2022. This symbolic act is an important step in recognizing the history and suffering suffered by Lumumba and the Congolese people. .
Screenings of the film are scheduled on different dates and times to allow all audiences to attend. Special sessions are planned for pupils, students, professionals and the general public. This testifies to the importance of this event in the Congolese collective memory and in the understanding of the country’s history.
Quentin Noirfalisse, Benoît Feyt and Dieudo Hamadi bring a new perspective through this film by highlighting the impunity surrounding the assassination of Lumumba and exploring the complex links between the colonial past and the Congolese present. Their artistic work contributes to opening discussions and reflections on the consequences of colonization and the reconstruction of a better future.
The return of Patrice Lumumba, symbolized by the screening of this film in Kinshasa, is a moment of commemoration, reflection and reconciliation for the Congolese people. It is an opportunity to recognize his legacy and continue to build a future based on justice and freedom. This film thus reminds us of the importance of preserving and sharing history, so that future generations can understand the struggles and sacrifices of those who fought for independence and justice.