Today’s article focuses on a significant event in Congolese news. President Félix Tshisekedi visited Nkamba, the holy place of the Kimbanguist Church, on Thursday October 12, 2023. This trip is of particular importance because it symbolizes the rapprochement between the political power of Kinshasa and one of the most influential local churches.
President Tshisekedi arrived in Nkamba for a 4-hour visit, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., to participate in a double ceremony. First of all, it commemorates the death of Simon Kimbangu, which occurred on October 12, 1951 after thirty years of imprisonment. The latter is an emblematic figure of the Kimbanguist Church, venerated by its faithful.
Then, this day is also marked by the celebration of the birth of Papa Simon Kimbangu Kiangani, son of Papa Dialungana Kiangani Salomon and mother Kiwasisilua. Spiritual leader and legal representative of the Kimbanguiste Church since 2001, Papa Simon Kimbangu Kiangani is a respected leader within his community.
Many delegations are already present in Nkamba to attend this event. President Tshisekedi’s visit testifies to the importance of religion in Congolese society and underlines the desire for collaboration between the Kimbanguist Church and political institutions.
This meeting between political power and religious institution is a unique opportunity to strengthen ties between the country’s different communities. It also shows President Tshisekedi’s desire to be actively involved in religious affairs, recognizing the importance of spirituality in the lives of the Congolese.
In conclusion, the visit of President Félix Tshisekedi to Nkamba is a significant event which marks a rapprochement between political power and the Kimbanguist Church. This approach demonstrates the importance of religion in Congolese society and opens the way to new collaborations for the well-being of the population.