Fally Ipupa concert at the Stade de France: the Ministry of Culture denies any official funding
In response to a heated controversy sparked by the circulation of a document suggesting alleged public funding for Fally Ipupa’s concert, the Congolese Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage sought to set the record straight. In a statement dated 6 November 2025, Minister Yolande Elebe Ma Ndembo denies any financial involvement by the State and denounces an attempt to manipulate public opinion.
The Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage officially responded on Thursday, 6 November 2025 to the controversy fueled on social networks around a document allegedly signed by its services, which reported financial support for Fally Ipupa’s concert scheduled at the Stade de France. According to the released statement, the text in question is “not authentic” and “the work of ill-intentioned people seeking to discredit institutions and sow confusion.”
The office of Minister Yolande Elebe Ma Ndembo makes it clear that “the Ministry has not, to date, undertaken any steps to hand over funds to the artist Fally Ipupa, nor to replace his production.” Moreover, she maintains that no official request has been submitted by the artist to that effect.
While reaffirming its mission to promote the national cultural heritage, the ministry recalls that its role is to “support the cultural reach of the DRC within a framework of public interest and transparency.” “Culture is a force of unity, peace and influence for our country,” reads the ministry’s message.
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