The Streets Speak: Congo's Street Artists Transforming Urban Spaces

Freelance street artists in the DRC are turning cities into living canvases. From Kinshasa’s bustling streets to Goma’s alleyways, murals and graffiti reflect political messages, history, and vibrant culture. These artists use their work to inspire, protest, and celebrate Congolese identity, gaining recognition across Africa and beyond.

Button Link

RBS Akademya

A Kinshasa-based collective, RBS Akademya is known for creating impactful murals addressing pressing issues. In February 2025, they initiated the #sprayforcongo movement, producing a striking 4-meter-long mural featuring Rwandan President Paul Kagame alongside images symbolizing the Congolese struggle. Their work aims to raise awareness about the M23 conflict and advocate for peace in the region. 

Button Link

Kinshasa Art Collective

This group of artists utilizes street art to honor the efforts of the Congolese army and civilian coalitions in restoring peace. Their murals often depict military figures and civilians draped in the Congolese flag, symbolizing unity and resilience against imperialism and capitalism.

Button Link

Kin Graff Festival Artists

An annual graffiti festival in Kinshasa, Kin Graff brings together local and international artists to create large-scale murals throughout the city. Founded by Yann Kwete in 2013, the festival has featured over 13 artists in its recent editions, contributing to the city's vibrant street art landscape. 

Button Link

Kinshasa Street Performers

A group of multidisciplinary artists in Kinshasa creates elaborate costumes from household rubbish found at dumps, turning trash into art. Their performances highlight political and environmental issues, challenging societal norms and sparking conversations through their unique art forms. 

Button Link

Through the Lens: Congo's Freelance Photographers Capturing History

Freelance photographers in the DRC are documenting everything from daily life to major political and cultural events. Whether capturing stunning landscapes, wildlife, or powerful human stories, their work is reaching global audiences through exhibitions, social media, and news agencies, reshaping the narrative of Congo through powerful imagery.

Button Link

Herman Kambala

Based in Kinshasa, Herman Kambala is a photographer and videographer dedicated to showcasing the beauty and cultural richness of the DRC. Through his travels across the country, he captures diverse stories and shares them with the world. His work encompasses nature, culture, and daily life in Congo. 

Button Link

Pamela Tulizo

Pamela Tulizo is a documentary photographer and journalist. Her work focuses on portraying the resilience and strength of Congolese women amidst political and economic instability. In 2020, she was awarded the Dior Photography and Visual Arts Award for Young Talents for her series "Double Identity." 

Button Link

Léonard Pongo

A Belgian-Congolese photographer, Léonard Pongo offers a visual interpretation of his experiences in the DRC through his project "The Uncanny." His work delves into the country's landscapes and societal dynamics, providing an allegorical imagery of the nation. 

Button Link

Arlette Bashizi

A Congolese photographer, Arlette Bashizi focuses on documenting the enduring impacts of war on displaced communities in the DRC. Her work emphasizes both the struggles and moments of unity and healing within these communities. 

Button Link

The Sound of Kinshasa: Freelance Musicians Making Waves

From soukous to hip-hop and Afrobeats, independent musicians in the DRC are blending traditional rhythms with contemporary beats. With platforms like YouTube and Spotify, freelance artists are gaining international audiences while preserving the rich legacy of Congolese music. Kinshasa’s streets are alive with sound, fueling the next global hit.

Button Link

Fally Ipupa

Fally Ipupa is a renowned singer, songwriter, and guitarist. He began his career with the band Quartier Latin International, led by Koffi Olomidé, before launching a successful solo career. Fally Ipupa is known for blending traditional Congolese rumba with contemporary genres, earning him international acclaim.

Button Link

Koffi Olomidé

Koffi Olomidé is a legendary figure in Congolese music. As a singer, dancer, producer, and composer, he has been instrumental in popularizing soukous music globally. Koffi Olomidé leads the band Quartier Latin International and has mentored numerous artists, including Fally Ipupa.

Button Link

Ferre Gola

Hervé Gola Bataringe, known as Ferre Gola gained prominence as a member of the bands Wenge Musica Maison Mère and Quartier Latin International before establishing a solo career. Ferre Gola is celebrated for his soulful voice and contributions to modern Congolese rumba.

Button Link

Hiro Le Coq

Hiro Le Coq is a singer and rapper who blends Congolese rumba with urban music styles. He initially gained fame as a member of the group Bana C4 before pursuing a solo career. Hiro is known for his smooth vocals and contemporary sound.

Button Link

Congo's Indie Filmmakers: Storytelling Beyond Borders

Freelance filmmakers in the DRC are crafting compelling narratives, from social documentaries to epic dramas. With a growing presence in African film festivals and digital streaming, these storytellers are redefining how the world sees Congo, highlighting resilience, beauty, and untold histories through powerful cinematography.

Button Link

Djo Tunda Wa Munga

Djo Tunda Wa Munga is a prominent film director and producer. He gained international acclaim for his 2010 thriller Viva Riva!, which was the first feature film produced in the DRC in over two decades. The film received multiple awards, including Best Director at the 2011 Africa Movie Academy Awards. Munga is also the co-founder of Suka! Productions, the first production company established in the DRC. 

Button Link

Tshoper Kabambi

A dynamic figure in the Congolese film scene, Tshoper Kabambi is known for his dedication to developing the local industry. He directed Heart of Africa, a film that has garnered international attention. Kabambi has been selected to helm the upcoming biopic Patrice Lumumba, focusing on the life of the DRC's first democratically elected prime minister. This project aims to employ and train local talent, contributing to the growth of the country's film industry. 

Button Link

Jean-Michel Kibushi Ndjate Wooto

Widely regarded as a pioneer of animation in Central Africa, Jean-Michel Kibushi has played a crucial role in the DRC's film industry. In 1991, he created his first stop-motion film, Le Crapaud Chez Ses Beaux-Parents ("The Toad Visits His In-Laws"), based on a tale from his ethnic group, the Tetela. Since then, Kibushi has been instrumental in teaching and encouraging animation among local artists and youth in the region. 

Button Link

Monique Mbeka Phoba

Monique Mbeka Phoba is a filmmaker whose work often explores African themes and stories. Her documentaries have received several awards, including "Un rêve d'indépendance" ("A Dream of Independence"), which portrays 35 years of independence in the DRC. Phoba has been active in promoting African cinema and has contributed significantly to its development. 

Button Link

The Future of Congolese Fashion: Freelance Designers Go Global.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Etiam odio justo, ultricies a facilisis at, dictum at augue. Morbi sem nisl, tempus eu leo ac, eleifend dignissim mi. Nulla at neque sapien. Nullam quis vestibulum dui. Nulla at neque sapien. Nullam quis vestibulum dui.

Button Link

Anifa Mvuemba

Founder of the fashion label Hanifa, Anifa Mvuemba is a self-taught designer renowned for her innovative approach to fashion. In May 2020, she gained international acclaim by debuting a virtual 3D runway show for her Pink Label Congo collection, a groundbreaking event in the fashion industry. Her designs celebrate her Congolese heritage and have been featured in prominent publications such as Vogue and The New York Times. Notable clients include Zendaya, Gabrielle Union, and Mary J. Blige.

Button Link

Elie A. Bishikwabo

Elie A. Bishikwabo is the founder of the Bantu Kingdom Foundation. Growing up as the son of a seamstress, he developed a passion for fashion design early on. In 2009, he began creating unique pieces, starting with designing backpacks from denim pants for his classmates. His brand emphasizes African heritage and craftsmanship. 

Button Link

Victor Otem

As the creative force behind his eponymous brand, Victor Otem specializes in customizable and ready-to-wear garments for both men and women. His designs are known for their sophistication and attention to detail, catering to clients seeking bespoke fashion experiences.

Button Link

Cocci Bilele Addiction

This brand, led by designer Cocci Bilele, has showcased collections at events like Kinshasa Fashion Week. The designs often feature vibrant patterns and contemporary styles that pay homage to Congolese culture. 

Button Link