DRC: Raised the price of tickets to the National Museum

For art enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the tradition and history of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the National Museum of the DRC (MNRDC) in Kinshasa has slightly adjusted its admission fees for art visits. Already affordable, the entry fee for nationals will increase by 500 Congolese Francs. Starting from March 1st, Congolese adults will be required to pay 3,500 FC, and children 2,500 FC.

For foreigners, the price remains the same: $10 for adults and $5 for children. Families with children under 5 years old will benefit from a special rate, as indicated in a message from the MNRDC.

Constructed over three years, between July 2016 and June 2019, the MNRDC is located on Triomphal Boulevard at number 4422, in the Lingwala commune.

Devoted to the cultural history of numerous ethnic groups and historical periods of the country, it was designed with the goals of conserving, transmitting, and showcasing the Congolese cultural heritage.

The MNRDC encompasses two reserves, three exhibition halls (two permanent and one temporary) covering an area of 6,000 square meters, a souvenir shop, a cafeteria, a library, a seminar room, a conference room, two storage rooms, a multipurpose hall, administrative offices, a recording studio, and outdoor spaces.

The National Museums Institute of Congo has provided the MNRDC with precisely 12,002 objects stored in two reserves meeting museum standards, with 423 objects currently on display.

The first permanent exhibition hall depicts humanity facing the challenges of existence, tracing the history of the Congolese people and showcasing daily life and craftsmanship.

The second permanent hall focuses on the life cycle and cultural expressions, emphasizing the importance of rituals throughout life and communal social order.

The temporary hall is dedicated to musical instruments and communication devices grouped by family.

Visitors to the MNRDC can also explore a giant mask from the Suku people.

Presented by the King of Belgium in June 2022 during his visit to Kinshasa, this object known as “kakuungu” was used for initiation rites and possessed protective qualities, as explained by the Belgian Royal Palace.

The exhibits primarily consist of photos taken within the country, particularly among the Kuba, Pende, Luba, Tshokwe, Lunda, Mangbetu, Kitawala tribes, and many others.

The goal of this exhibition led by photographers Carol Beckwith, Angel Fisher, and Angelo Turconi is to highlight the richness of Congolese cultures and the strength of traditions, providing a glimpse into the diversity of ethnicities that make up the nation.

The construction of this museum was made possible through funding from the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

It was officially handed over to the Congolese government on June 14, 2019, by representatives of the Republic of Korea in the DRC, with its inauguration taking place in November of the same year by the President of the Republic, Félix Tshisekedi.