Henintsoa Rafalia, an internationally renowned Malagasy photographer, will represent Madagascar at the second edition of Mampala Foto Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of Congo, from August 29 to September 29, 2026. The event, themed "Mijiji: Roots – A Return to Essentials, A Projection Toward the Future," brings together 38 artists from Africa and beyond to explore the connections between cultural heritage and the future.

For this occasion, Henintsoa presents a series dedicated to Sambatra, the collective circumcision ceremony of the Antambahoaka people. His images delve into the symbolic power of this ritual, where social cohesion and cultural transmission are revealed through each gesture and gathering.

Already an International Journey

This is not Henintsoa Rafalia's first exhibition outside Madagascar. His photographs have already traveled to Paris, Arles, Montpellier, Réunion, Geneva, and Abidjan, confirming the recognition of his vision beyond borders. He has also collaborated with international agencies and media, and in 2025, he was distinguished as Knight of the Order of Arts, Letters and Culture. His career testifies to a constant commitment: making photography a tool of memory and dialogue, capable of connecting local traditions to universal issues, as his photos are socially engaged.

A Malagasy Voice on the World Stage

With Sambatra, Henintsoa Rafalia inscribes his work in an approach to valorizing intangible heritage. His selection in Lubumbashi confirms the vitality of Malagasy photography and reminds us that roots are a source of momentum toward the future.