### Kinshasa: the call for reflection through “Kimbangu, a black Savior”
On April 7, 2025, Kinshasa vibrated to the rhythm of a significant event with the presentation of the trailer for the documentary film “Kimbangu, a black Savior”, directed by Kunda Nlaba. The dissemination of this work is part of the day dedicated to the combat of Simon Kimbangu, an emblematic symbol of the Congolese resistance in the face of colonization. But far beyond the cinematographic aspect, this documentary questions our collective identity, our colonial past and our future destiny.
#### Historical resonance
Simon Kimbangu, almost mythical figure, emerged at the beginning of the 20th century in a context where the Congo was marked by the brutality of the Belgian colonial regime. In 1921, he proclaimed spiritual and political independence, deeply touching the hearts of many Congolese, who saw him in a guide and a divine messenger. Nevertheless, few cinematographic projects have managed to treat this character with as much depth and relevance as the fact Kunda Nlaba. Like other stories of colonial resistance around the world, such as the film “Timbuktu” by Abderrahmane Sissako, this work addresses the fight against oppression in a way that still resonates today.
#### A documentary present and future
In his announcement, Ne Kunda Nlaba evokes the release scheduled for July 2025. A strategic timing, especially in the face of the increase in mental decolonization movements and struggles for equality around the world, especially in Africa. By weaving projections in Paris, Brussels, London and other major cities, Nlaba succeeds in a master stroke by integrating a globalized dimension at its local story. This approach not only enhances Congolese history, but also to place it in a global context of struggle for human dignity.
The trailer invites the public to reflect on its own reflection against the past struggles. This raises a relevant question: have we really learned from the colonial past? At a time when Africans occupy more and more space in the global story, it is crucial that future generations are armed with solid historical knowledge, such as that proposed by “Kimbangu, a black Savior”.
### cultural and identity influence
Promoting a film like this can also serve as a catalyst for the cultural movement in Africa. By confronting systematic discrimination and reaffirming African identities, Nlaba’s film can be part of other significant achievements on the continent. In Senegal, for example, creations like “Atlantic” of Mati Diop also underlined the identity and struggles of Africans in a postcolonial world.
This work arrives at a time when more and more young Africans are seeking to reclaim their history, often stranded by an education system still too influenced by a Western culture. By providing a critical vision of historical injustices while evoking the current struggles, the film draws a bridge between the past and the present, denouncing not only colonial oppression, but also the residual effects it has caused, such as corruption and alienation.
#### A universal message
Finally, within this canvas of historical and cultural fabrics, it is essential not to lose sight of the universal message that “Kimbangu, a black Savior” conveys. Simon Kimbangu’s fight for dignity, freedom and resistance against oppression finds an echo in many contemporary movements around the world, from struggles for social justice to ecological demands.
The final promotion of the film at various international festivals and its accessibility via the streaming promised by Nlaba will make it possible to reach a wider audience, making this work not only a rallying cry for the Congolese diaspora, but also for all those who aspire to justice and equality in a world often confirmed by its historical fractures.
### Conclusion
“Kimbangu, a black Savior” is not just a simple historical story, it is a call for action, reflection and rediscovery of cultural roots. By raising the veil on the complexity of Congolese history and its humanity, this film goes beyond the borders of Africa and presents itself as a poignant testimony of the fight for human dignity, reflecting the challenges and hopes of a continent in full rebirth. Spectators will be invited not only to rediscover the memory of Simon Kimbangu, but also to question their role in the construction of a more equitable future. There is no doubt that this documentary will mark a significant turning point in the African cinematographic landscape.