Of Congolese nationality, born in Kigali, Rwanda on February 02, 1985, Namwandala Shombo Kibe is a recognized contemporary artist and modern sculptor, whose work is deeply rooted in the History of Art and the preservation of African heritage.
At the age of 17, shortly after leaving school, Namwandala embarked on a passionate personal quest. He began collecting ancient statues and traveling extensively, crossing villages and borders to deepen his knowledge of the history and uses of these artifacts.
This initiation journey led him through considerable challenges, but his determination remained unwavering. His research took him to various regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo (notably Katanga, Kasai, South Kivu, North Kivu, and Kisangani), as well as neighboring countries such as Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, Angola, Zambia, and Rwanda. The objective of these travels was clear: to educate the world about ancient statues and the history of Africa.
With 22 years of experience in the field of art, Namwandala Shombo Kibe now dedicates his expertise to African creativity. He actively participates in exhibitions and commercial art projects, and regularly collaborates with young artists from Burundi, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda to promote cultural exchange.
Based in Musanze, Rwanda, he has established his home and career. He is a father of two children (a girl and a boy). It is also in Musanze that he runs a dedicated art center. This space is a vital place where he helps young people develop their artistic talents and where he organizes exhibitions featuring different art forms from several African countries.
Namwandala Shombo Kibe is a bridge between the past and the future, using ancestral art to inspire and develop the next generation of African creators.