Nestled in the periphery of Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a humble recording booth that has become much more than just a place for music. It serves as a haven for homeless teenagers, a space where they can channel their raw experiences, challenges, and hopes through rap and song.
The lyrics echo the grim realities of life on the bustling streets: tales of sexual abuse, confrontations with law enforcement, and the ever-present specter of theft. But beyond these narratives of adversity, the Mokili Na Poche cultural centre stands as a beacon of hope. It functions not just as a recording space but as a daily refuge for those in dire need, offering sustenance, hygiene facilities, and most importantly, the gift of learning.
Osé Mavakala, a 19-year-old with dreams that soar far beyond the streets he has known as home for years, encapsulates the spirit of this sanctuary. “When I sing, it brings joy to my heart,” he shares, his eyes reflecting the aspirations of over 20,000 other street children in Kinshasa, as estimated by UNICEF.
A recent session saw Mavakala passionately delivering his verses, while fellow teenagers watched, a mix of admiration and camaraderie evident in their eyes. The studio experience has not just been therapeutic for Mavakala, but also transformational. Inspired by the likes of international rap sensation Lil Wayne and Congolese maestro Fally Ipupa, he envisions a future filled with rhythm and rhyme. Having frequented Mokili Na Poche for three years, Mavakala has not only honed his musical skills but also delved into the realms of art and literacy, thanks to the center’s diverse curriculum that runs from early morning till evening.
Cedrick Tshimbalanga, the visionary founder of the center, believes in the redemptive and expressive power of music. “Through music, these young souls narrate their daily struggles, the traumas, the violations, and the relentless battles they face,” he says. Tshimbalanga has grand plans: he’s gearing up to curate these heartfelt tracks into an album, aiming to amplify the voices of these resilient young individuals.
The endeavor of Mokili Na Poche goes beyond just artistry. In a nation where access to basic education remains a challenge – with over 7 million children between ages five to seventeen bereft of formal schooling opportunities – the center’s classes fill a critical void. They represent a chance to reclaim lost opportunities, to build a foundation upon which dreams can be realized.
During an emotionally charged session at the center, Mavakala encapsulated the essence of their collective journey in his rap, “Step out of the shadows of crime, my friend. Gaze ahead, see what the horizon has in store for you.”
Such is the indomitable spirit of the street children of Kinshasa: a spirit that finds its rhythm, beats, and voice in a small recording booth, echoing their dreams of a brighter tomorrow.
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