Founded in 2001 on the island of La Désirade, Désirad’ka is a cultural association dedicated to preserving and promoting local traditions through dance, music, and the art of Gwoka.

This emblematic musical form of Guadeloupe, built around seven traditional rhythms performed on the ka drum and percussion instruments such as chacha and ti-bwa, is recognized as part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage and stands as a powerful symbol of Guadeloupean identity.

Born from a collective desire among friends to anchor and revitalize gwoka on the island, the association organizes public workshops in traditional dance and music, stage performances during local festivals and celebrations, and a variety of cultural events. Over the years, Désirad’ka has expanded its reach beyond Guadeloupe, participating in festivals across mainland France since 2014, releasing albums such as Désirad’ka Ka sonné (2012) and Polisyon (2018), and developing new international projects, including a European tour for the Sweet Potato Festival in September 2025.

Through concerts combining music, singing, and dance, as well as recordings and educational initiatives, Désirad’ka actively transmits and exports this living heritage, contributing to the global visibility and continued vitality of gwoka culture.

Country : Guadeloupe