Fridolin Ambongo Besungu

Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, born on January twenty-four, nineteen sixty, is a prominent Congolese Catholic prelate who has made significant contributions to the Church and society. Since 2018, he has served as the Archbishop of Kinshasa, following a distinguished career that includes roles such as Bishop of Bokungu-Ikela from two thousand four to two thousand sixteen and Archbishop of Mbandaka-Bikoro from two thousand sixteen to two thousand eighteen.

Before ascending to the episcopate, Ambongo dedicated himself to parish ministry and academia, serving as a parish priest and professor. His commitment to peace and reconciliation has positioned him as a leading voice among his peers, advocating for national harmony in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

In recognition of his service, Pope Francis elevated him to the rank of cardinal on October fifth, two thousand nineteen. Additionally, in two thousand twenty-three, he was appointed president of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar, further solidifying his influence within the Church.

Ambongo is also a member of the Council of Cardinals and the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin, reflecting his deep-rooted commitment to his faith and the Catholic community.