**Francis Kankonde: A musical and journalistic legacy beyond borders**
The death of Francis Kankonde, which occurred on January 8, marks a significant loss for the Congolese community, but also for the media and musical landscape of the African diaspora in Europe. A former journalist and music columnist on the private channel Antenne A in the 2000s, Kankonde was much more than a simple host. His journey, which took him from Kinshasa to Brussels, illustrates the challenges and successes of many African artists and media seeking to establish themselves in Western societies where cultural and social barriers are still omnipresent.
### A Journey from Music to Journalism
A graduate in Law from the University of Kinshasa, Francis Kankonde took a bold turn by choosing to train in journalism in Brussels. This double degree highlights an often overlooked aspect: the diversity of skills and experiences that professionals from the diaspora bring to the media landscape. While many are making it in the music field, few dare to combine their passion with rigorous academic training.
Kankonde’s narrative of his experience, stating that “to assert yourself in Western media is a real struggle,” opens the door to a broader reflection on the obstacles that African journalists face in an already saturated media environment. Statistics also reveal that less than 5% of journalists in European media come from ethnic minorities, making Kankonde’s effort all the more valuable. This figure is a reminder that voices like his are essential to diversifying media narratives.
### Music As A Cultural Bridge
Francis Kankonde is widely recognized for his love of Congolese music, a genre that not only entertains but also tells stories of resistance, struggle and resilience. In his shows, he was able to highlight not only established artists, but also give a voice to new talents who struggle to make themselves known outside the borders of Congo. In this, Kankonde was not content to simply report facts; he was committed to establishing a true cultural dialogue between Africa and Europe.
This cultural exchange is all the more relevant in the context of the globalization of music. Genres such as soukous and Congolese rumba have found an international audience, but their success often rests on figures such as Kankonde who, through their platform, facilitate the encounter between Western audiences and African artists. It could thus be argued that his work has contributed to the emergence of Afro-contemporary music in Europe, illustrating how artists from the diaspora are not only actors of entertainment, but also cultural ambassadors.
### Kankonde’s Legacy
Francis Kankonde leaves a complex and dynamic legacy, where music and journalism intersect to offer authentic and enlightening stories. His passion for Congolese music and his commitment to making the voices of African artists heard in Europe make him an iconic figure for future generations. As the world draws increasing attention to the need for fair representation in the media, his journey reminds us that every voice matters.
For those who were lucky enough to listen to him and see him at work, Francis Kankonde will forever be associated with this quest for visibility and recognition for African artists. By restoring a place for Congolese music in the European media landscape, he not only contributed to the promotion of a rich and varied culture, but he also paved the way for others who are now following in his footsteps.
In short, Francis Kankonde has not only left his mark on his time; His legacy will endure, not through monuments or awards, but through the lasting impact of his work on music, journalism and the visibility of African artists in an ever-changing media world. His contributions will continue to inspire all who seek to discuss, question and celebrate cultural diversity.