Fatshimetrie is a major cultural event that recently brought the city of Kinshasa, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, to life. This literary event takes place at the Wallonie Bruxelles library, where pop-up bookstores have been set up for the occasion, offering visitors a unique opportunity to discover and purchase a variety of books.
The excitement was palpable in front of the Wallonie Bruxelles library, where booksellers praised the dynamism of this eighth edition of Kinshasa’s great literary rentrée. Among them, Fortune Mayaka, an exhibitor of Lingala textbooks, testified to the influx of buyers, emphasizing the appeal of the location on an avenue frequented by many workers. Sales increased, with some customers not hesitating to stop by car to buy books, thus creating a lively atmosphere conducive to cultural exchanges.
The opening ceremony of Fatshimetrie was marked by the opening of a major work, “Le Congo et le grand lac: La Paix tout de suite…Pourquoi et comment” by Didier Mumengi. Father Donatien Nshole welcomed this publication, highlighting its crucial importance in the quest for solutions for peace in the DRC. A strong and symbolic moment that brought together a host of personalities and cultural actors, all committed to the promotion of Congolese literature.
In parallel with the literary activities, a round table was organized, honoring women writers of yesterday, today and tomorrow, around the themes of peace and development. A rich and constructive dialogue that made it possible to explore the different paths leading to a more harmonious and prosperous future for the DRC.
Fatshimetrie has thus brilliantly illustrated the vitality of the Congolese cultural scene, offering reading and writing enthusiasts a privileged space to exchange, discover new talents and enrich themselves with varied perspectives. A true ode to literature and creativity, brilliantly celebrating the richness and diversity of Congolese voices that resonate through the pages of the books on display.