Goma’s iconic Amani Festival relocates to Lubumbashi

One of eastern Congo’s most powerful symbols of peace and unity, the Amani Festival, is moving away from its longtime home in Goma.

Organisers have announced that the festival known for bringing together thousands of young people in celebration of music, culture, and peace will now be held in Lubumbashi, citing growing insecurity in Goma and the surrounding North Kivu region.

For years, Amani Festival has stood as a cultural beacon in a region often defined by conflict. Held annually in Goma, near the Rwandan border, the event drew artists and attendees from across Africa and beyond, delivering a strong message: even in the face of violence, peace is possible.

But worsening instability in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has made it increasingly difficult to guarantee the safety of artists, crews, and festivalgoers. Armed clashes and rising tensions in and around Goma have forced organisers to make what they describe as a difficult but necessary decision.

Relocating the festival to Lubumbashi, in the country’s relatively more stable southeast, is seen as a temporary measure to preserve the spirit of Amani while ensuring security.

Organisers emphasised that the heart of the festival promoting peace, resilience, and youth empowerment remains unchanged.

Many residents of Goma have expressed sadness over the move. For local businesses, artists, and young people, Amani Festival was more than entertainment; it was an economic boost and a rare moment of collective hope in a conflict-affected region.

Despite the relocation, organisers have maintained that Goma remains the spiritual home of Amani Festival. They expressed hope that when stability returns, the festival will once again echo through the city’s streets, as it has done for years.

For now, Lubumbashi will host the celebration carrying forward a festival born in adversity, determined to keep its message of peace alive, even if it must change location to survive.