A Diplomatic Endeavor to Rescue a Nation’s Memory
In a concerted effort to safeguard invaluable historical documents, a bilateral mission consisting of experts from both Congo and Switzerland convenes in Pointe-Noire, Congo’s economic epicenter. This collaboration is spearheaded by Brice Isinove Owabira, Director of the National Archives and Documentation Centre, and Professor Alexander Keese, a historian from the University of Geneva. The mission is a continuation of expeditions undertaken in 2017 and 2024, which were instrumental in preserving over 25,000 documents of Middle Congo from severe degradation.
Chronicles of the Past: 1960 to 2000
The undertaking focuses on the archives from the post-colonial era, spanning the critical years between 1960 and 2000. These periods are particularly pivotal, marking Congo’s journey from colonial rule to independence. The preservation efforts are crucial to maintaining a continuous historical narrative and to fostering an informed understanding of Congo’s socio-political evolution.
International Support in Historical Conservation
The initial phases of the archival rescue mission were funded by the British Library, while subsequent missions garnered the support of the Swiss National Science Foundation. This financial backing underscores the collaborative nature of the project and highlights the international community’s recognition of the archives’ significance.
A Collective of Experts Navigating Cultural Heritage
The Congolese team, led by Owabira, includes key figures such as Lydie Noëlle Ntsoumou, Donatien Ondzala, and Christiane Mboungou Mbaki. Meanwhile, Professor Keese coordinates the efforts on the Swiss side, with support from experts including Beatriz Valverde, Andreas Zeman, and Céline Clémence Belina. Collectively, these individuals contribute a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the mission.
Anticipating the Outcome: A Deeper Dive
Upon completion of the project, the digitized and conserved archives are destined for relocation to the newly established Departmental Archives Centre in Pointe-Noire. This move aims not only at preserving physical documents but also at facilitating easier access for researchers and historians seeking to delve into Congo’s intricate heritage and its journey through tumultuous times.