Anthology of Computers and the Humanities · Volume 4

Humanités numériques et justice épistémique africaine : le cas du transfert culturel de l’art musical Bambala dans la musique congolaise moderne

Kageri-Andy Kindongo1 et Saidou Kodio2

  • 1 Université Gustave Eiffel / LISAA (EA 4120), Champs-Sur-Marne, France
  • 2 Université Paris-Est Créteil Val-de-Marne - Paris 12 / LIS (EA 4395), Créteil, France

Permanent Link: https://doi.org/10.63744/wO4Pvylm5glD

Published: 21 May 2026

Keywords: digital humanities, epistemic justice, ethnomusicology, cultural transfer; Bambala, Congolese music, postcolonial studies

Mots clés : humanités numériques, justice épistémique, ethnomusicologie, transfert culturel, Bambala, musique congolaise, études postcoloniales

Abstract

This article examines how Digital Humanities can contribute to restoring epistemic justice toward African artistic knowledge, which has long been marginalized in global intellectual history. Focusing on the musical traditions of the Bambala people (Democratic Republic of Congo), whose rhythms and dances have significantly influenced modern Congolese music without explicit recognition, we analyze the mechanisms of cultural transfer and the forms of invisibilities that accompany them. By articulating postcolonial philosophy, ethnomusicology, and Digital Humanities, we propose a theoretical and methodological framework for documenting, contextualizing, and digitally preserving these musical practices. The study highlights the need for ethical, legal, and technical infrastructures that ensure the visibility and legitimacy of local knowledge within global digital ecosystems.