**Fatshimetrie: The urgency of safeguarding Kikwit’s cultural heritage**
In the heart of the Kwilu province, in the southwest of the Democratic Republic of Congo, stands the National Museum of Kikwit, a precious witness to the history and culture of the region. Unfortunately, this emblematic building is today facing an advanced deterioration of its infrastructure, jeopardizing the preservation of its artistic heritage.
The provincial director of the Museum, Ms. Suzanne Pemba, is sounding the alarm and calling for urgent intervention to rehabilitate the dilapidated buildings. Indeed, the dilapidated state of the premises not only prevents the adequate exhibition of works of art, but also forces some pieces to be stored in precarious conditions, thus compromising their conservation.
This critical situation raises essential questions about the protection of Kikwit’s cultural heritage. It is imperative that local authorities and civil society mobilize to safeguard these artistic and historical treasures, which constitute the very soul of the region.
In addition to the rehabilitation of the National Museum, it is also crucial to raise awareness among the local population about the importance of preserving the city’s tourist sites. Among these, the Kungu Pemba cemetery, the Saint Francis Xavier Cathedral, the Sacré-Cœur Catholic Church, the Ebola victims’ cemeteries and the monument in tribute to the musician Emeneya deserve special attention.
With this aim of promoting Kikwit’s heritage, Ms. Pemba announces the imminent launch of a campaign to identify new historical sites in the city. This is an essential step to preserve collective memory and promote cultural tourism in the region.
The Kikwit National Museum, inaugurated in 2011, is more than just an exhibition space, it is a symbol of the region’s cultural identity. Its rehabilitation and preservation are major challenges to preserve the history and traditions of Kikwit, and ensure a sustainable future for this precious heritage.
In conclusion, the need to protect the Kikwit National Museum and the city’s historical sites is undeniable. It is a collective duty to ensure the preservation of this unique cultural heritage, in order to pass on to future generations the rich and diverse legacy of Kikwit.