White Eldorado, Black Fever

Raïs Neza Boneza

Raïs Neza Boneza is a Congolese-Norwegian writer, poet, researcher and peace practitioner whose work moves across literature, history, human rights and conflict transformation. Born in the Katanga region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, he writes from a life shaped by African memory, displacement, exile and encounters with different cultures. His writing gives voice to people and communities whose experiences are often ignored by dominant political and historical narratives.
Boneza is the author of fiction, nonfiction, poetry and essays. His books include Nomad: A Refugee Poet, Black Emeralds, Amani, Peace by African Peaceful Means, White Eldorado, Black Fever, Formless and Lutefisk og Andre Dikt. Across these works, he explores war and peace, identity and belonging, colonialism, migration, spiritual healing and the struggle for human dignity. His language combines poetic sensitivity with political clarity, transforming personal experience into a wider reflection on the condition of humanity.
In White Eldorado, Black Fever, Boneza exposes the hidden relationship between Congo mineral wealth and the suffering of its people. Through the dangerous journey of two young friends searching for fortune in the coltan fields of Kivu, he reveals how global technology, armed conflict and economic exploitation are connected. His storytelling remains deeply human, balancing tragedy with friendship, courage, humour and hope.
Beyond literature, Boneza has worked as an educator, lecturer, facilitator and adviser with organisations and communities in Africa and internationally. He is associated with the TRANSCEND Global Network for Peace, Development and Environment, where he contributes to dialogue on peaceful conflict transformation. He also promotes art and poetry as instruments of healing, reconciliation and social change.
For Boneza, writing is not simply an artistic practice. It is a form of remembrance, resistance and responsibility; a way of confronting injustice while protecting the dignity and imagination of those who survive it.