UNESCO’S Heritage List: Rumba and the Congo

Pourquoi la rumba congolaise doit être inscrite à l’Unesco. Source: CongoBrazzavile

UNESCO is an organization that advocates for global peace by fostering international cooperation in the arts and sciences and an organization that also helps recognize and protect cultural practices and heritage sites. Authorities from the capitals of The Democratic Republic of Congo and Congo have submitted a joint application to have Rumba — an energetic ballroom dance that focuses on hip movements and the sensuality of the two partners — be recognized as a cultural tradition for their nations by UNESCO. Rumba has a multicultural background; it originated in Cuba with a blend of Spanish and primarily West African musical traditions and dance styles, and was then brought to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Congo through vinyl records. Rumba was embraced by the Congo people after its introduction because of its familiar rhythms that had derived from the Congo itself. The connection between Rumba and the Congo can be seen in the name of the dance itself, as it derives from nkumba, meaning bellybutton in a regional dialect of the Congo — possibly a derivative of Bantu. One of the primary motivations for Rumba to be recognized as a cultural tradition for both of these nations is the role that Rumba played in the socio-political movements of the past. 

Rumba’s importance extends not only as a traditional dance form — it also has ties to historical movements of independence. The dance is connected to figures like Joseph Kabasele , who wrote Independence Cha Cha, an old anthem for the Congo anti-colonial movement to persuade politicians to unite and secure self-rule, away from Belgian colonization. Recognition of how culture, tradition, and self-expression through art can help inspire and propel social movements forward is crucial to the objectives of UNESCO — as those who fight for peace can find many paths to do so, with art just among the infinite avenues of them. 

Art and revolution, culture and activism, have been connected themes for a long time. Many movements have life breathed into them through the artistry of their participants. A notable example of this is the Y'en a Marre movement in Senegal. Senegal has a unique history with art and politics with the first president of the young nation being both politician and poet: Léopold Senghor. Y’en a Marre is a primarily youth-led movement in Senegal that uses art, such as hip-hop, in order to speak out against issues in the country. The style of hip-hop in Senegal also draws inspiration from the oral cultural tradition of griot. Senegal’s youth activism displays the powerful role art can play in political discourse and social movements. 

Culture and art’s role in social movements is just one of the many reasons why recognizing, protecting, and learning about cultural practices and sites around the globe are important. There are a variety of potential reasons why a country may want an aspect of their culture showcased and protected as culture encapsulates society and history. If Rumba gets recognized by UNESCO for the DRC and Congo, it will join many other cultural practices, such as Finnish sauna culture among others (see hyperlink for UNESCO's list of cultural practices around the world). 

Controversy in 2015 regarding Kosovo’s UNESCO membership further shows that the recognition from an organization like UNESCO is significant and gives validity to cultural identity. This controversy was primarily based around whether or not Kosovo should be considered a full member state — opposition from Serbians conflicted with the desire of Kosovo to be seen as its own entity. 

Organizations like UNESCO are crucial for creating and maintaining a sense of global unity as sharing culture is made more accessible for all. Cultural recognition and protection heighten the sense of value that one can see in other people and their origins. Cultural appreciation is crucial in a world that is still impacted by xenophobia and ignorance. UNESCO is a valuable tool for progressing towards the future while still acknowledging and celebrating the past.