Kinshasa, July 10th, 2025 (CPA). -The provincial minister in charge of Culture and Arts paid tribute to fashion designer Cherry Esam, who died on July 7th in Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, according to a statement released on Wednesday. ‘Cherry Esam, whose death has torn him away from his loved ones, was a talented artist, a fashion designer who was the pride of this noble profession, and a Kinshasa native whose creative spirit nourished the art of our city, our country and Africa,’ said Jésus-Noël Sheke, provincial minister in charge of culture and the arts.
Jésus-Noel Sheke praised the artist’s career as a source of inspiration. ‘Cherry Esam’s career is a source of inspiration for the younger generation of artists and creators. I had the honor of personally presenting him with an award of excellence during the celebration of the 25th anniversary of his career, a well-deserved recognition for his entire body of work and his commitment to promoting Congolese fashion,’ said Jésus Noël Sheke. He also praised the designer’s professionalism, creativity and commitment. I join the Association of Congolese Designers in paying tribute to its former president,’ he continued, also praising Cherry Esam’s professional rigor, creativity and commitment to his art. The provincial minister offered his deepest condolences to the deceased’s family, loved ones, fellow designers and the entire artistic community of DRC. ‘Eternal peace to Patrick Esamotunu Watu Zalemi Picheri, known as Cherry Esam,’ concluded the provincial minister. The designer, whose influence extended beyond national borders, was considered one of the iconic figures of contemporary Congolese fashion design. Cherry Esam, whose real name was Esamotunu Wati zalemi picheri, was a Congolese designer and pattern maker. On the occasion of his 25-year career celebrated in October 2024, he announced the creation of a school to encourage and train young Congolese talent in the field of fashion, emphasizing the importance of fashion as an economic lever.