News: President Félix Tshisekedi goes to Nkamba, holy place of the Kimbanguist Church
By Siméon Isako
October 12, 2023 marks an important event for the Democratic Republic of Congo, as President Félix Tshisekedi prepares to visit Nkamba, the holy place of the Kimbanguist Church. This move is seen as a sign of rapprochement between the power in Kinshasa and one of the most influential local churches.
President Tshisekedi’s visit to Nkamba has a particular significance, because it coincides with two important events for the Kimbanguist community. First of all, it commemorates the death of Simon Kimbangu, which occurred on October 12, 1951 after thirty years of imprisonment. This day is also marked by the celebration of the birth of the one the Kimbaguists call Papa Simon Kimbangu Kiangani.
Papa Simon Kimbangu Kiangani is the son of Papa Dialungana Kiangani Salomon and mother Kiwasisilua. Since 2001, he has served as Spiritual Leader and Legal Representative of the Kimbanguist Church. Married to Lumuenedio Sidonie and father of one child, he plays a key role within the religious community.
According to sources, many delegations are already present in Nkamba in anticipation of the presidential visit. This event underlines the importance of the Kimbanguist Church in Congolese society and the desire of President Tshisekedi to promote dialogue and cooperation with the different religious communities in the country.
President Tshisekedi’s visit to Nkamba is a strong symbol of national unity and recognition of religious diversity in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It testifies to the importance given to freedom of religion and peaceful coexistence between different beliefs.
In conclusion, the visit of President Félix Tshisekedi to Nkamba, the holy place of the Kimbanguist Church, marks a significant step in relations between the central power and religious communities in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This gesture highlights the importance given to religious diversity and the promotion of national unity in the country. It is a demonstration of leadership and respect for all religious beliefs present in the DRC.