At the start of 2026, let us take a moment to celebrate the 222nd anniversary of Haiti’s independence. This year, the celebration carries special significance. On December 10, konpa was officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, recognizing far more than a musical genre: it is a living memory, a rhythm that spans generations and connects the past to the present.

Born in the 1950s, konpa has accompanied the joys, struggles, gatherings, and hopes of the Haitian people. As we begin this new year, we invite you to step into konpa—to (re)discover it, to listen to it, and to dance to its rhythm.

Happy New Year 2026 to all!