Haiti’s cultural wealth shines once again on the world stage with the official submission of the Konpa/Compas d’Haïti candidacy to UNESCO. In a press release from the permanent delegation of Haiti to UNESCO on March 26, Dominique DUPUY, Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of the Republic of Haiti, proudly announced this historic approach. The Konpa/Compas, a true emblem of Haitian music and dance, is thus proposed for inclusion on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Konpa/Compas, in all its nuances and variations such as Compas Direct, Hounsi, Boule de feu, Mélasse, Cadence Rampas, Makyavèl Karamèl, Digital, Stéréo, Manba, Malouk, Kèkal, Timtim, Funk, Love, etc., transcends geographical boundaries and provides a space for recognition and celebration for Haitians, both within the country and abroad. This music and dance, deeply rooted in Haitian history and identity, is a symbol of social cohesion and an essential element of the country’s cultural life.
This submission marks a significant moment in Haiti’s cultural history, being the country’s third nomination to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since the ratification of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. Previously, Soupe joumou/Soupe au giraumon and Kasav/Cassave were inscribed on this prestigious list, testifying to the diversity and richness of Haiti’s cultural heritage.
The announcement of this candidacy was greeted with overwhelming support, as illustrated by the number of reactions. This reflects the long-term efforts deployed within the “Konpa/UNESCO” consultation group, bringing together the Konpa/Compas community as well as many cultural associations, led by the Association for Haitian Music and Dance (AMDH).
The success of this approach is the result of close collaboration between various actors, in particular the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Culture and Communication, under the coordination of Mr. Andy Durosier, as well as the members of the Commission Haitian national cooperation with UNESCO. Researchers from the State University of Haiti and the heritage expert, Mr. Ricarson Dorcé, also provided their expertise to consolidate the scientific file for the nomination, according to the delegation.
By: Daniel Zephyr
