### Music as a Weapon: Between Commitment and Silence in the Time of the Congolese Conflict
While the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is going through one of the most tragic periods in its history, illustrated by persistent armed conflicts in the East, the music scene is proving to be a troubling mirror of the social and political dynamics at play. Far from the appearance of simple entertainment, music, whether rap or rumba, questions our collective commitment in the face of blatant injustices. In this cultural landscape, a striking contrast emerges: on the one hand, French rappers are speaking out against oblivion, while the icons of political rumba seem affected by a heavy silence. This dichotomy deserves a closer look, especially at a time when every voice counts.
#### French Rap: A Historical Mobilization
Rap has historically served as a resonator for social and political struggles. Since the late 1990s, figures such as Bisso Na Bisso have been able to use their fame to raise awareness in France about the violence in the DRC. This mechanism of mobilization through music is not only relevant, but it also echoes methods of resistance used in other contexts of struggle, such as the civil rights movements in the United States.
In a comparative analysis, we could observe that rap artists often engage directly in political discourse, mobilizing their audience through concrete actions: demonstrations, petitions and social networks. A telling example is that of Youssoupha who, with his title “À force de le dire”, transforms individual pain into collective struggles. However, this type of commitment has not only caused an emotional shock; it has also catalyzed concrete actions, such as peaceful marches, which have become rallying points in recent years to raise public awareness of the Congolese tragedy.
### Silences of Rumba: Between Culture and Commitment
In contrast, the figures of Congolese rumba, who have historically been seen as “the educators of the masses”, seem to shy away from the calamity. This silence raises several questions: is it a question of fear? A lack of audacity? Or simply a disconnection with the experiences of Congolese people confronted with war? From a sociological point of view, rumba, often focused on the celebration of cultural identity and the joy of living, here faces moral dilemmas. While their music has recounted struggles and hopes in the past, the current void in terms of political engagement could suggest a lack of awareness of their crucial role at that time.
The reasons behind this silence are complex. A recent study by the Culture and Diversity Foundation reveals that artists who have demonstrated commitment during past crises have often faced severe repercussions, which could explain the reluctance of rumba stars. A striking statistic highlights that 78% of Congolese artists feel apprehensive about speaking out on controversial topics. This climate of fear could explain their inflexibility in the face of issues affecting their homeland.
### An Essential Reflection: The Historical Role of Artists
This situation leads us to ask a crucial question: how can artists rediscover their voice as a vector for change? In other historical contexts, such as South Africa under apartheid, artists like Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela stood up to denounce injustice, galvanizing international support. Why then should rumba figures not replicate this model? The potential impact of music on complex realities should therefore not be underestimated. The evocative power of rumba could very well play a crucial role, serving as a rallying cry for a suffering people.
Already, movements are emerging within the Congolese artistic community that would like to see a revival of this educational role. Initiatives such as the “Rumba et Solidaire” festival aim to bring together artists and citizens around a common goal: to raise awareness of the realities on the ground while reaffirming the power of music as a tool for change.
### Conclusion
As the DRC faces colossal challenges, the need for collective awareness within the artistic community is pressing. Artists, whether they are French rappers or members of the rumba scene, have this unique power to catalyze change through art. If rap has managed to establish itself as the voice of social struggles, it is time for rumba to become aware of its historical role again. The lack of refusal to engage can no longer be justified by fear, disinterest or ignorance. The walls of silence must be broken; the time has come to make forgotten voices heard and transform them into a call for collective action. Music must once again become this mirror of the struggle and not just entertainment.
**Fatshimetrie.org** invites all cultural actors to reflect on this delicate situation and to redefine their role in the fight for a more just society.