Photo & Video: Congolese Music Star Papa Wemba Dies After Collapsing on Stage

Legendary Congolese singer Papa Wemba has died. He was 66 years old. The musician whose real name was Jules Shungu Wembadio Pene Kikumba was performing at the the Festival des musiques urbaines d’Anoumabo (FEMUA) in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivore early today April 24th when he fell in the middle of his act. 

Video from the concert shows the artist, who was 66, performing at the the Festival des musiques urbaines d’Anoumabo (FEMUA) in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivore early today April 24th .He slumped on the floor as dancers continue to perform, unaware of what is happening. 

Unlike Nigeria, Gays Get Refuge in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire

No kissing, no petting. As gay bars go, this one is pretty well-behaved. But the crowd packing the Abidjan venue is relaxed and happy to be part of this haven of tolerance on a hostile continent.

“In a gay club, we are much freer than in straight places,” 22-year-old student Jacques tells AFP, looking on as three men sway their hips to Ivorian music on the dance floor.

“We get no strange looks. Here we can unwind, feel at ease and let ourselves go.”

One man gently strokes his companion’s neck but displays of affection stop there. The strict social codes prevailing in Ivory Coast apply here too.
The patrons include several transvestites, one a 20-year-old teacher who goes by the name Malika, and who has been living as a woman by night and a man by day for the past three years.