YOUNG DRC RAP SENSATION URGES PEACE

Is the world on the brink of discovering a groundbreaking rap talent from the heart of Africa?

That's the buzz circulating online as a young boy from the Democratic Republic of Congo captivates audiences with his powerful lyrics highlighting the struggles of his homeland. Social media is abuzz with claims that he embodies authenticity in the rap scene, channelling genuine emotion and lived experiences into his music.

This rising star is nurturing his extraordinary gift at the Invisible Kids Academy, a non-profit institution located in the war-torn eastern region of Congo. The Academy provides orphaned children with opportunities to express themselves through art, dance and music, offering them a glimmer of hope.

In the viral video, our young rapper is joined by another boy skilfully imitating percussion instruments, creating a performance that resonates with viewers around the world.

His rap tackles harrowing themes such as child soldiers, gender-based violence, displacement, massacres, the exploitation of natural resources and political assassinations.

The history of the Democratic Republic of Congo has been marred by turmoil since King Leopold II's brutal reign began in 1885. Following its independence in 1960, the country faced the assassination of its pan-African leader Patrice Lumumba in 1961, orchestrated by imperialist forces, and the rise of the Western-backed dictator Mobutu Sese Seko, who exploited the nation’s wealth until his removal in 1997. For three decades, foreign interests have battled for control over an estimated $24 trillion in mineral resources, resulting in the deaths of around six-million people, the displacement of over seven million, and leaving more than 25 million in dire need of food.

In a world that's grown numb to the ongoing tragedies of the Congo, this vast Central African nation may have just unearthed a vibrant new voice capable of reigniting global interest and compassion for its enduring struggles.

Video credit: invisible_kids_academy on IG

Sources:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-invisible-kids-academy-in-the-congo

https://www.wfp.org/emergencies/drc-emergency

https://reporting.unhcr.org/operational/situations/democratic-republic-congo-situation

https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/06/1151516