The Democratic Republic of Congo's National Assembly has adopted a resolution to admit five historical figures into the National Order of Heroes. The resolution, read by Jacques Djoli, rapporteur of the National Assembly, was passed during a plenary session on November 6, 2026. The five individuals recognized are Kimpa Vita, Simon Kimbangu, Monseigneur Christophe Munzihirwa Mwene Ngabo, Étienne Tshisekedi wa Mulumba, and Monseigneur Emmanuel Kataliko.
The National Order of Heroes was initially created in 2002 to honor Patrice Emery Lumumba and Laurent-Désiré Kabila, who were assassinated in 1961 and 2001, respectively. However, a new law passed in 2025 expanded the order to recognize other Congolese who have rendered heroic services to the nation. The law defines a national hero as someone who has fought for the country's independence, democracy, territorial integrity, and national unity.
Kimpa Vita, a prophetess born in 1684, is being recognized for her role in the restoration of the Kongo kingdom and her advocacy for African Christianity. She was a major figure in the early days of colonization and was known for her courage and conviction. Vita was condemned to death by burning at the stake in 1706 for her political and religious beliefs.
Simon Kimbangu, a prophet born in 1887, is being honored for his message of spiritual and social liberation during the colonial era. He preached a gospel of liberation, advocating for justice, peace, and human dignity. Kimbangu's message resonated with the Congolese people, and he became a leader in the fight against colonial oppression.
The recognition of these five historical figures as national heroes is seen as a way to honor the services they rendered to the nation and to recognize the contributions of Congolese people who have fought for the country's freedom and dignity. The elevation of these individuals to the rank of national heroes is also seen as a way to promote national unity and to celebrate the country's rich history.
Étienne Tshisekedi wa Mulumba, a doctor and politician, is one of the five individuals being recognized as a national hero. He was a prominent figure in Congolese politics and was known for his advocacy for democracy and human rights. Monseigneur Christophe Munzihirwa Mwene Ngabo and Monseigneur Emmanuel Kataliko are also being recognized for their contributions to the country's spiritual and social development.
The recognition of these national heroes is expected to inspire future generations of Congolese people to work towards the country's development and prosperity. It is also seen as a way to promote national pride and to celebrate the country's rich cultural heritage.
Key points
- The DR Congo parliament has recognized five historical figures as national heroes for their services to the nation.
- The five individuals recognized are Kimpa Vita, Simon Kimbangu, Monseigneur Christophe Munzihirwa Mwene Ngabo, Étienne Tshisekedi wa Mulumba, and Monseigneur Emmanuel Kataliko.
- The recognition is based on a law passed in 2025 that expanded the National Order of Heroes to include Congolese who have rendered heroic services to the nation.
