Papa Wemba was an absolute legend of Congolese music and his legacy is immense, both artistically and morally. His music has nourished struggles of the African people for freedom and dignity through art. He has been an engine for African cultural renaissance, and for the development of art  throughout the continent. His participation in the Festival of urban cultures in Abidjan is a reflection of his image: a total artistic and social commitment to youth, until his last breath. On behalf of UNESCO I express my deepest condolences to his family and relatives, to the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo, whose culture was radiated by Papa Wemba on a global scale,” said  Director-General Irina Bokova. 

A living legend of Congolese and African music, Papa Wemba – the stage name of Jules Shungu Wembadio Pene Kikumba - is one of the greatest artists of Congolese rumba. He has inspired generations of talented artists and lastingly marked the cultural landscape of the African continent. Throughout 50 years of career as a singer and actor, Papa Wemba has amazed the world with his voice, his style - including dressing style, because he was one of the kings of the Sape – his stage presence and his vast musical repertoire. Several weeks ago, he participated in the launch of the 9th edition of the Urban Music Festival Festival of Anoumabo, in UNESCO, with Salif Traoré, initiator of the festival and Goodwill Ambassador of UNESCO.