Kinshasa, March 30th, , 2026 (CPA).- Three days of funeral ceremonies have been scheduled starting Monday in memory of Catherine Nzuzi wa Mbombo, an influential figure on the political scene in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), who passed away on March 18th in Kinshasa. In tribute to this prominent dignitary of the Second Republic and renowned businesswoman, CPA approached Madeleine Kankolongo Ndaye, also an emblematic woman of Nzuzi’s generation, to reflect on the rich legacy of this icon. “Maman Nzuzi” held several high-level positions in the country, with nearly 50 years of political activity. She notably served as Mayor of Gombe commune, Vice-Governor and later Governor of Kinshasa, Governor of Bas-Zaïre (now Kongo Central), and member of the Political Bureau and Central Committee of the MPR. Future generations will remember her commitment to the promotion of women, the support of women traders, and the mobilization of “Mamans,” Mrs. Kankolongo said.
Question 1: As a close family and political associate of Catherine Nzuzi, can you retrace the journey of this icon of the Congolese political class over nearly four decades?
Mrs. Kankolongo: The one we mourn today was originally from Central Kasai province, Kazumba territory, just like me. I knew her well, like a sister, an elder in politics. When I met her again years later in political circles, I discovered a brilliant woman, a true icon of political life. She had left Kasai at a young age with her parents to settle in Kinshasa. At the time, her family was already very well known. Her father was a prominent figure, a mayor during the colonial era, an admired évolué and a great man from our region. As children, we deeply admired that family. Seeing them pass by was always a remarkable moment.
However, Catherine herself was rather discreet during her childhood. I therefore have few memories of her as a young girl. It was later in Kinshasa, when she began her political career that I truly came to know her— particularly at the start of her career, when she was already mayor of Gombe municipality at just 20 years old. For us, it was a source of pride; we would say, “Nzuzi Henry’s daughter is burgomaster in Kinshasa.”
Question 2: Can you share testimonies for future generations about her involvement in political and administrative affairs?
Mrs. Kankolongo Ndaye: In the 1980s, with the creation of the party’s Central Committee, we were appointed members at the same time. It was during that period that we grew closer. She gave me a lot of advice, as I was still new to politics. I frequently visited her home, where she shared valuable guidance based on her experience. Shortly afterward, she was appointed Vice-Governor of Kinshasa, making her a key figure in the country’s political life. Everyone spoke about her. She was very active, highly popular and respected. Her rise was remarkable, eventually becoming Governor of Bas-Zaïre (now Kongo Central). She asserted herself confidently in a male-dominated environment, where she was greatly respected as a leader. She was a source of pride for women. Her confidence, intelligence and commitment to movements advocating for women’s rights were exemplary. She was always at the forefront of campaigns promoting women’s emancipation and empowerment, becoming a true reference. Within the Central Committee, she was not just a member but a role model encouraging women to persevere. She was later appointed Vice-President of the Central Committee Bureau, a position of very high responsibility, equivalent at the time to that of Vice-President of the country under the one-party system. This shows how far she rose. She was a direct collaborator of Mobutu Sese Seko, who was both President of the MPR and Head of State. With the change of regime and the arrival of Laurent-Désiré Kabila, she went through difficult times. While many fled or went into exile, she remained. She was arrested and spent nearly a year in prison. After her release, she bravely resumed her political activities. President Laurent-Désiré Kabila later appointed her Minister of Solidarity and Humanitarian Affairs.
Question 3: What model should be retained from Nzuzi wa Mbombo, whose passing comes during the celebration of International Women’s Month?
Mrs. Kankolongo Ndaye: Catherine was a woman consistent in her choices, a true example of political stability. Unlike some political actors who shift positions depending on circumstances, she remained faithful to her convictions until the end. Her nickname, referring to a viper, reflected her personality: a determined woman, formidable in debates, who defended her ideas relentlessly. When she set a goal, she never backed down. She knew how to convince and was never intimidated. I also remember her loyalty to President Mobutu and his ideals. Every year, she organized masses on the anniversary of his passing. Beyond politics, Catherine was also a family woman—a mother, grandmother, and even great-grandmother, very affectionate. Despite her many responsibilities, she remained close to her family. I admired this balance between public and private life. She dedicated her life to the cause of women, their emancipation and empowerment. She embodied this autonomy, both financially and in her ideas and actions. Her passing, in this month dedicated to women’s rights, is highly symbolic. She leaves behind a valuable legacy—a model for all generations. For me, Catherine remains a source of inspiration. Her life, her journey and her struggles speak for themselves. They provide guidance. She leaves us a strong message: determination, loyalty and commitment.