President Félix Tshisekedi is about to make a major trip to Nkamba, the holy site of the Kimbanguist Church. This visit marks a significant rapprochement between the power of Kinshasa and one of the most influential local churches. Scheduled for Thursday, October 12, 2023, this visit will last approximately four hours, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and will include two important ceremonies.
The first ceremony commemorates the death of Simon Kimbangu, which occurred on October 12, 1951 after thirty years of imprisonment. Simon Kimbangu is an emblematic figure of the Kimbanguist Church and his death is an important moment of contemplation for the faithful. This will be an opportunity for President Tshisekedi to participate in this tribute and show his respect for this religion.
The second ceremony celebrates the birth of the one the Kimbaguists call Papa Simon Kimbangu Kiangani, also on October 12 but in 1951. Son of Papa Dialungana Kiangani Salomon and mother Kiwasisilua, Papa Simon Kimbangu Kiangani is the Spiritual Head and Legal Representative of the Kimbanguiste Church since 2001. His birth is a moment of joy and gratitude for the faithful of this church.
According to several sources, numerous delegations are already present in Nkamba in preparation for President Tshisekedi’s visit. This testifies to the importance and solemn nature of this event for the faithful of the Kimbanguist Church.
This visit by President Tshisekedi to Nkamba is also a sign of the desire of those in power to be inclusive and attentive to the different religions present in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Indeed, the Kimbanguist Church is among the main religions of the country and its influence is undeniable. This gesture shows the president’s desire to strengthen ties with this religious community and promote peaceful coexistence between different beliefs.
Beyond its religious dimension, this visit to Nkamba also offers an opportunity for President Tshisekedi to meet and discuss with the faithful of the Kimbanguist Church, to listen to their concerns and take their needs into account. This demonstrates a more open and inclusive approach to politics, where the voices and opinions of all citizens, regardless of their religion, are taken into consideration.
In conclusion, President Félix Tshisekedi’s visit to Nkamba is a significant event that demonstrates his commitment to religious diversity and his desire to establish strong ties with all communities in the country. This visit is a symbol of the importance of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect between different religions in the Democratic Republic of Congo.