U.S. Embassy Kinshasa Mourns the Passing of a Congolese Icon

The U.S. Embassy joins the government and the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo as well as music lovers around the world in mourning the loss of musical artist Papa Wemba on April 24, 2016.  We offer our sincere condolences to his family and friends.

As one of the premier African singers of his time and an international celebrity, Papa Wemba’s musical repertoire included musical rhythms and styles from all over the world including Africa, Cuba, Europe and the United States.  He was truly an inspiration.  Our thoughts and prayers remain with him and his loved ones.