The government of Kasaï Central province announced with great sadness the death of Marie-Isabelle Bampende Banakayi, the provincial minister for Gender, Family, Social Affairs, and Humanitarian Action. According to a communiqué released by Pierrot Mutela, the provincial minister of Communication and Media, Minister Bampende Banakayi passed away on October 5, 2026, in Kinshasa, the capital city of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Minister Bampende Banakayi was born on December 29, 1960, in Muetshi, which is currently part of the Kasaï Central province. She began her political career as a provincial deputy for the Dimbelenge electoral district in December 2023, under the banner of the UDPS/Tshisekedi party. In February 2024, she was elected president of the provisional bureau of the Kasaï Central Provincial Assembly.
In July 2024, Minister Bampende Banakayi joined the provincial government of Joseph-Moïse Kambulu as the minister for Gender, Family, Social Affairs, and Humanitarian Action. She was reappointed to the provincial executive in May 2026 and was still serving in this capacity until her sudden death on October 5, 2026.
The government of Kasaï Central province, led by Governor Joseph Moïse Kambulu, expressed its deepest condolences to Minister Bampende Banakayi's biological and professional family, as well as to the entire population of Kasaï Central. The provincial government described her death as a huge loss and announced that the program for her funeral would be communicated later.
Minister Bampende Banakayi's death has sent shockwaves throughout the province, with many paying tribute to her dedication to public service. Her contributions to the provincial government, particularly in the areas of gender, family, and social affairs, are being remembered and appreciated by her colleagues and the people of Kasaï Central.
The cause of Minister Bampende Banakayi's death has not been disclosed, but her passing has highlighted the need for the government to ensure the well-being and safety of its officials. The provincial government has promised to provide support to her family during this difficult time and to continue implementing the programs and projects she initiated.
Key points
- The government of Kasaï Central province announced the death of Marie-Isabelle Bampende Banakayi, the provincial minister for Gender, Family, Social Affairs, and Humanitarian Action, on October 5, 2026.
- Minister Bampende Banakayi was a dedicated public servant who played a crucial role in the provincial government, particularly in the areas of gender, family, and social affairs.
- The provincial government has expressed its deepest condolences to Minister Bampende Banakayi's family and has promised to provide support during this difficult time.
