In 2024, several luminaries from the Democratic Republic of Congo illuminated the global stage with their remarkable accomplishments and prestigious appointments, while others were adorned with honors that reflected their excellence. These accolades not only celebrate the brilliance of Congolese talent but also herald a generation poised to conquer the challenges of economic growth, governance, and global competitiveness. They stand as a testament to the nation’s ability to cultivate leaders whose influence reaches far, shaping the future of vital sectors both at home and abroad.
Below is a non-exhaustive list of these remarkable individuals:
Judith Suminwa, Prime Minister
On April 1, 2024, Judith Suminwa was appointed Prime Minister of the DRC, making history as the first woman to hold this office. With over 20 years of experience in governance, public finance, and peacebuilding, she has developed a multifaceted expertise. Holding prestigious degrees from Belgium and with experience working for the United Nations, Suminwa has served in critical roles, including at the UNDP and the Ministry of Budget in the DRC, where she honed her skills in public policy management. Before her appointment as Prime Minister, she was the Minister of State for Planning, leading major reforms. Suminwa embodies inclusive and strategic leadership, poised to steer the DRC toward sustainable development.
Anthony Nkinzo, Chief of Staff to the President of the Republic
Anthony Nkinzo was appointed Chief of Staff to the President of the DRC in June 2024, marking the culmination of a stellar career in public administration and investment promotion.
Previously, Nkinzo served as Director General of the National Agency for Investment Promotion (ANAPI) from 2017 to 2024, where he played a pivotal role in attracting investments to the DRC. He also chaired the International Francophone Network of Investment Promotion Agencies (RIAFPI).
A graduate in international public law from the University of Kinshasa and the Catholic University of Bukavu, Nkinzo enhanced his expertise with an Advanced General Management program at HEC Paris. His visionary leadership makes him a central figure in the DRC’s public sector.
Willy Mulamba, Managing Director of Equity BCDC
In November 2024, Willy K. Mulamba, an internationally renowned financial expert, was appointed Managing Director of Equity BCDC, a key financial institution in the DRC and a subsidiary of Equity Group Holdings, the largest financial services company in East and Central Africa. He succeeds Célestin Mukeba Muntuabu, who had led the bank since 2020.
With over 20 years of experience in the financial sector, Mulamba has built a solid reputation, notably as the former Managing Director of Citibank DRC and President of the Congolese Banking Association. He brings extensive expertise in executive management, corporate governance, risk management, and deal structuring.
A graduate in applied economics from the University of Liège and in banking and finance from Paris-Saclay University, Mulamba furthered his education at the University of North Texas. Starting his career in the United States before joining Citi in 2007, he strengthened the bank’s operations in the DRC and expanded its African market presence. His leadership at Equity BCDC is expected to drive inclusive growth and economic development in the DRC.
Gisèle Bondo, Deputy Managing Director of UBA/RDC
In February 2024, Gisèle Bondo was appointed Deputy Managing Director (DMD) of UBA DRC. A trailblazer in the financial sector, her career began in 2006 at ProCredit Bank Congo as a customer service officer, where she developed key skills.
In 2010, she joined Equity Commercial Bank of Congo, excelling over 14 years, including as Associate Director in Retail Banking, where she doubled retail sector revenues through innovative strategies.
In 2021, Bondo moved to UBA DRC as Retail Banking Director, adapting the bank’s products to local needs. Her appointment as DMD further expands her strategic responsibilities. Bondo exemplifies resilience and excellence, having built high-performing teams and introduced tailored services for the Congolese market.
Isabelle Lessedjina, Chair of the Board of Directors of Rawbank
In July 2024, Isabelle Lessedjina, a specialist in international finance with over 20 years of experience, was named Chair of the Board of Directors of Rawbank, the largest bank in the DRC.
Before this role, Lessedjina served as First Vice President of the Currency Exchange Fund (TCX) from 2019, a fund dedicated to mitigating currency risks in developing economies. A graduate of the London Business School and IESE Business School, she has also held leadership positions at Standard Chartered Bank, General Electric Capital, and Philips Capital.
Jean Muntuabu Luabeya, Chair of the Board of Plantations et Huileries du Congo (PHC)
On September 19, 2024, Jean Muntuabu Luabeya was named Chair of the Board of PHC, the largest private employer in the DRC.
With 30 years of experience both domestically and internationally, Muntuabu has held various significant roles, including Advisor to the Economic and Social Council of the DRC Presidency and Senator for the Kasai Central province since 2024. As Chair, he aims to strengthen PHC’s position as a leader in sustainable palm oil production in the DRC, fostering growth and investor confidence.
Colette Likinda, Deputy Managing Director of Advans Bank Congo
Appointed Deputy Managing Director of Advans Congo in July 2024, Colette Likinda brings recognized expertise in risk management and banking leadership.
With over a decade of experience, she has excelled in compliance, fraud prevention, and operational risk management. She previously led fraud investigations and implemented robust mechanisms for banking operations security at Standard Bank DRC and crafted global strategies for institutional resilience at FINCA Impact Finance.
Vanessa Umba, Pilot of Qatar Airways’ First Flight to the DRC
On June 1, 2024, Qatar Airways’ inaugural flight to the DRC landed at N’djili International Airport in Kinshasa, marking the airline’s 29th African destination. At the helm of this historic flight was Captain Vanessa Umba, a Belgian-Congolese pilot with an exceptional career.
A pilot and instructor with Qatar Airways since 2018, Umba previously spent 12 years at Gulf Air, where she became the airline’s first female captain in 2011. She later commanded Gulf Air’s first all-female crewed flight in 2015.
This milestone flight symbolizes Congolese excellence and the increasing representation of women in aviation.
Rodolphe Kembukuswa and Eldon Khuty Lead Africa Global Logistics in the DRC
In February 2024, Rodolphe Kembukuswa was appointed Country Director of Africa Global Logistics (formerly Bolloré Africa Logistics) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), based in Kinshasa. Simultaneously, Eldon Khuty was promoted to Managing Director of the subsidiary located in Katanga Province, based in Lubumbashi. These appointments underscore Africa Global Logistics’ commitment to leveraging skilled local leaders to drive its strategic operations.
With 33 years of experience within the Bolloré Group, Rodolphe Kembukuswa, 59, has held various positions in Antwerp, Kinshasa, Kigali, Dar es Salaam, and eastern DRC. Since 2018, he served as Managing Director of the Katanga subsidiary. Eldon Khuty, on the other hand, has focused on expanding Africa Global Logistics’ operations in Katanga, a critical hub for strategic minerals vital to global energy transitions and intra-African trade.
Deborah Tshidibi Sabanga Named Best Speaker
Congolese legal scholar Deborah Tshidibi Sabanga was awarded “Best Speaker” at the third edition of the French-language mock trial competition organized by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the Hague Academy of International Law from May 21–24, 2024. Supported by the French Embassy in the Netherlands, the event brought together 42 universities from 17 countries. The University of Kinshasa (Unikin) also earned the second-place award at this prestigious competition.
Previously, Deborah distinguished herself by winning sixth place in advocacy at the 40th Charles-Rousseau International Law Competition at the Free University of Brussels, where she tackled complex themes related to the International Court of Justice.
Haya Mvita, Member of the board of the Diplomatic World Institute Board
In December 2024, Haya Mvita was appointed to the Board of the Diplomatic World Institute (DWI) as an expert in Nation Branding and Public Relations. This esteemed organization promotes diplomacy, international partnerships, and peace, bringing together influential leaders, diplomats, and innovators to tackle global challenges.
Haya’s remarkable career spans personal branding, strategic communication, and global management. She initially made her mark in Africa’s music industry by breaking barriers in a male-dominated field, securing major partnerships for her clients with Sony Music Africa and Universal Africa.
Beyond entertainment, Haya supports women leaders in STEM, working with figures from companies like Microsoft and Salesforce. She also drives corporate branding and luxury concierge projects, seamlessly integrating culture, tourism, and economic diplomacy in her Nation Branding efforts. With a focus on empowering youth and women, Haya continues to foster cross-cultural connections and promote sustainable international collaborations.
Lionel Kabeya Elected ICC YAAF Regional Representative
In August 2024, Lionel Kabeya was among 16 young Africans elected as regional representatives of the Young Arbitrators Forum (YAAF) of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).
Kabeya, a lawyer, legal consultant, and commercial arbitrator, also serves as Judge-Arbitrator at the National Center for Arbitration, Conciliation, and Mediation (CENACOM), a DRC-based institution aimed at improving the business climate through alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
Additionally, he is the Communications Officer for the Federation of Congolese Enterprises (FEC). Between 2015 and 2020, Lionel practiced as a lawyer, specializing in litigation, dispute resolution, and extrajudicial legal support in Kinshasa and Lubumbashi. A graduate in private and judicial law from the University of Lubumbashi, he further honed his skills with advanced training at HEC Paris and Lehigh University in the U.S. through the prestigious Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders.
Professor Yvonne Ibebeke, Rector of the National Pedagogical University
In August 2024, Professor Yvonne Ibebeke was appointed Rector of the National Pedagogical University (UPN). With 38 years of academic experience as a professor of chemistry at UPN, she has shaped generations of students and contributed to educational excellence in the DRC.
In parallel with her academic career, she spent over three decades in water quality management at REGIDESO, holding strategic roles such as Head of the Water Quality Division and Production Director. She also played a key role in strengthening national laboratories through the Congolese Laboratory Association.
Yvonne’s international experience includes teaching at the Free University of Brussels, where she served as an assistant in general and organic chemistry between 1984 and 1986. Her multidimensional expertise makes her a prominent advocate for quality education and sustainable development in the DRC.
Yves Mayilamene Glencore’s Regional HR Manager for Copper Africa
In September 2024, Yves Mayilamene joined Glencore to oversee HR operations in Africa, including key entities such as Kamoto Copper Company, Mutanda Mining, and Glencore DRC. With over 25 years of HR leadership experience in multinationals, Yves has held key positions, including Group HR Director at Ecobank, where he contributed to the bank’s recognition as the “Best Place to Work in Africa” in 2022.
Previously, he served as HR Director for Airtel Africa, overseeing 16 countries, and Celtel/Zain in Francophone Africa, following his early career at British American Tobacco in the DRC and Europe.
Fluent in English, French, and Swahili, Yves is a graduate in economics and management from the University of Mons (Belgium). His strategic expertise and multicultural acumen position him to foster employee well-being and organizational performance at Glencore.
Professor Alain Miatudila Honored as Distinguished Alumni by UNC Charlotte
Associate Dean of Engineering at Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC), Professor Alain Miatudila was honored as “Distinguished Alumni” at the 2024 UNC Charlotte Alumni Awards, making him the first African to receive this recognition.
Since 2019, Alain has overseen 10 undergraduate engineering programs at CPCC and facilitated academic collaborations between U.S. universities and the University of Kinshasa. He also served as an associate professor at UNC Charlotte from 2008 to 2019 and boasts a notable career in civil engineering and construction management.
Holding a Ph.D. in civil engineering and multiple degrees from UNC Charlotte, Professor Miatudila is a leading figure in education and engineering, celebrated for his academic impact and community contributions.
Ernest Afuta, Director of the IMPACT Lab at Austin Community College District (ACC)
In June 2024, Ernest Afuta was appointed Director of the IMPACT Lab at the Austin Community College District (ACC) in the United States. This advanced manufacturing hub focuses on innovation, incubation, and training. With extensive expertise in advanced manufacturing, prototyping, production management, and operations, Afuta brings valuable experience to the role.
A graduate in mechanical engineering with a specialization in Lean Six Sigma from Indiana State University, Afuta previously worked at Tesla’s Gigafactory, where he oversaw equipment installation, production optimization, and team training. Inspired by ACC’s Tesla Start program, he initially joined the IMPACT Lab part-time before becoming its full-time director. His vision is to leverage the lab’s potential to train students and meet advanced manufacturing demands.
As Director, Afuta will oversee lab operations, equipment and personnel management, and partnerships with businesses, ensuring the lab’s growing influence in advanced manufacturing.
Yannick Kabangu, Country Manager for Adform in Sub-Saharan Africa
In October 2024, Yannick Kabangu was named Country Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa at Adform, a global leader in advertising technology. With over 14 years of experience in digital advertising and AdTech, Kabangu leads Adform’s expansion across the continent.
Prior to joining Adform, Kabangu held key positions at Conversant and CJ Affiliate, managing portfolios for major international clients. As Adform’s first employee in Africa, he played a pivotal role in integrating global brands onto the platform. In his new role, Kabangu continues to promote innovation, transparency, and sustainable practices in digital advertising while strengthening regional and global partnerships.
Eric Kopi Beyume and Elie Mbeki Busha Pongo Win Pierre Castel Prize 2024
Eric Kopi Beyume, CEO of BEYAGRO, and Elie Mbeki Busha Pongo, founder of Établissements La Fleur, were honored with the prestigious Pierre Castel Prize for their outstanding contributions to the agri-food industry in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
BEYAGRO, formerly KOPIMENTE, specializes in chili cultivation and processing in Kinshasa. Founded by Kopi Beyume in 2019, the company has become a leader in the Congolese market, offering innovative chili products such as liquid chili, hot sauce, and pickled chili, designed to cater to local culinary needs while addressing dietary concerns.
Elie Mbeki Busha Pongo’s Épices La Fleur transforms Congolese spices into 100% natural culinary bouillons, including flavors like “Barbecue,” “Shrimp,” and “Pondu.” Her work highlights local resources while delivering high-quality, authentic products to consumers.
The Pierre Castel Prize recognizes these entrepreneurs’ dedication to innovation and agricultural development in the DRC.
Bantu Lukambo Wins Special IFAW Award for Wildlife Protection
In October 2024, Bantu Lukambo, a Congolese conservationist, received a special award from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) during the Animal Action Awards at the BAFTA in London. This award recognizes his exceptional work in protecting wildlife and habitats in the Virunga National Park region.
Lukambo, 51, founded the NGO Innovation for Development and Environmental Protection (IDPE) in 1994, combatting poaching and safeguarding biodiversity. One of his most notable achievements was his successful opposition to SOCO International’s oil exploration project in Lake Edward, protecting Virunga’s fragile ecosystem.
Despite threats and challenges, Lukambo has led numerous community initiatives, including creating an environmental radio station and rescuing endangered species such as a baby gorilla. His tireless efforts have increased conservation awareness, with 70% of his community now recognizing its importance.
Fiston Mwanza Mujila Wins 2024 Literary Award from Houses of Literature
Congolese author Fiston Mwanza Mujila won the prestigious 2024 Literary Award from the Houses of Literature, which includes a €20,000 prize. The award was presented at the Leipzig Book Fair on March 22, 2024.
Born in Lubumbashi in 1981, Mujila is a leading voice in contemporary African literature. His acclaimed debut novel Tram 83 (2016) earned multiple international awards, while his latest work, La danse du vilain (2020), won the 2021 Les Afriques Prize.
Through poetry, prose, and drama, Mujila explores themes such as war, dictatorship, and labor conditions in Congolese mines. His rhythmic style and authentic portrayal of urban African life have garnered global recognition.
TP Mazembe Wins CAF Women’s Champions League
The TP Mazembe women’s team made history by winning the CAF Women’s Champions League for the first time on Saturday in El Jadida, Morocco. The victory came in their debut appearance, with a 1-0 win over AS FAR, the 2022 champions, thanks to a penalty by Marlène Kasaj Yav in the 8th minute.
Under the guidance of Moroccan coach Lamia Boumehdi, who joined Mazembe in March 2023, the team showed remarkable determination, defeating top teams like University of Western Cape LFC (South Africa), Aigles de la Médina (Senegal), and Edo Queens (Nigeria).
The Corbelles, Mazembe’s nickname, also saw standout performances from players like Kasaj Yav, Belange Nzumba, Marta Lacho, and Merveille Kanjinga Nanguji, who were named to the tournament’s best XI. This historic win solidifies TP Mazembe’s status as a rising powerhouse in African women’s football.
