The sounds of Burundi’s traditional Ingoma drums reverberated across Kampala as the Kampala Geopolitics Conference opened with an unforgettable cultural performance that bridged heritage and diplomacy. In a spirited display of rhythm and identity, a troupe of Burundian drummers transported the audience from the Central Teaching Facility Auditorium at Makerere University to the lush hills of Bujumbura. More than just a spectacle, the performance served as a profound reminder of the unifying power of music, particularly in the context of regional discussions surrounding politics, identity, and cooperation.
As day turned into evening, the event’s energy evolved rather than faded. The conference’s first night culminated in vibrant performances from both Burundi’s Umurisho Troupe and Uganda’s own musical powerhouse, Nakiyingi Veronica Lugya—popularly known as Vinka. Her high-energy set of hit songs thrilled the audience and seamlessly blended modern Afrobeat sounds with the pulse of traditional East African culture. This fusion of tradition and contemporary music underscored the central role of art in regional connection and diplomatic expression.
The drumming, deeply symbolic in Burundian society, carries spiritual, political, and social weight. The powerful resonance of the Ingoma drums, beaten in perfect synchronicity by drummers dressed in the national colors of red, white, and green, told stories of resilience and pride. For centuries, these drums have accompanied royal ceremonies and national events, signaling not only celebration but also authority and unity. One attendee expressed the experience vividly, saying it felt as though the audience had been momentarily transported from Kampala to the hills of Burundi—where tradition breathes through rhythm.
The conference performance reinforced the importance of cultural preservation at a time when the continent is navigating complex modern challenges. The sacred Burundian drums are more than instruments; they are vessels of history and identity. Their beat reverberates with meaning in every strike, honoring a lineage of storytelling and spiritual connection that stretches back to the 17th century.
Eric Touze, Director of Alliance Française Kampala, highlighted the importance of this cultural thread in diplomacy during his remarks. He noted that Alliance Française is not only a language center but also a cultural pillar. “Culture is not just entertainment,” he said. “It’s a form of geopolitics. Music, art, and language shape how we relate to each other, challenge ideas, and build common ground.” His words echoed the day’s central message: that Africa’s soft power—embodied in its art, traditions, and heritage—is an essential force in shaping its global role.
The day began with dynamic panels and bold conversations that explored Africa’s geopolitical trajectory, with experts and changemakers addressing critical issues like global governance, peacekeeping, and economic transformation. Amid these heavy discussions, the cultural performance provided a moment of collective joy and introspection—an artistic interlude that emphasized the need to balance policy with cultural understanding.
The Burundian drummers’ presence set the tone for deeper conversations about how Africa can wield its soft power to influence global narratives. The ancient tradition of “ingoma,” which means drum in the Kirundi language, symbolizes royal authority and national unity. Drums such as Ruciteme and Murimirwa, preserved in sacred sites like Gishora, represent the heart of Burundi’s monarchy and are made from the umuvugaangoma—“the tree that makes the drum talk.”
The Royal Drummers of Burundi, also known as the Master Drummers, are globally recognized for their breathtaking performances. Their musical art form—passed down through generations—is performed using multiple types of drums, including the inkiranya (lead drum), amashako (which maintain a steady beat), and ibishikiso (which respond rhythmically). These performances involve not only synchronized drumming but also dynamic choreography, where performers balance heavy drums on their heads while dancing and singing in fluid rotation.
Since their international debut in the 1960s, the Royal Drummers have brought the sound of ingoma to global audiences, influencing world music and playing in festivals such as WOMAD. Their rhythms have been featured in films and albums, including collaborations with artists like Joni Mitchell and Echo & the Bunnymen. These global appearances have elevated the status of Burundian music while preserving its sacred essence.
At the Kampala Geopolitics Conference, their legacy continued—not just as a captivating display of cultural pride but as a vital voice in Africa’s dialogue with the world. The opening day proved that in every beat of the drum, there is power, purpose, and the potential to build bridges across borders.
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