Kibambe was born on December 12, 1935, to parents Paul Tshibambe and Louise Mawole. Kibambe lived a long and meaningful life, defined by faith, hard work, service, family, and a commitment to helping others. He was a man of determination and vision who believed in creating opportunities not only for himself, but for those around him.
He began his professional career at UTEXLEO, now UTEXAFRICA, and later served as an accountant with the Organization of African Unity in Kinshasa.
Following in the footsteps of his father, Paul Tshibambe, he entered the world of business and became the first distributor and representative of Bata in Kenge, Bandundu. He later worked with companies including UNIBRA, SBK, and Malita.
One of his greatest entrepreneurial achievements was the creation of ASAMECO — Atelier Sapin Meuble Confort, through which he provided employment and opportunities for many people. Because of his work in wood and furniture, he became affectionately known as “Grand Sapin.”
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kibame was a man deeply rooted in his Christian faith. He served as Secretary General of MILAPRO, the League of Protestant Churches of Congo, and as an executive at the Bible House in Kinshasa. He also served as an adviser to Monsieur Kalonji Mutambay wa Pasteur Kabongo, the first President of the National Conference.
Yet, above all these accomplishments and responsibilities, Kibambe was a father and family man. Kibambe was the eldest of 10 siblings, 2 living and 8 deceased. Kibambe married the love of his life, Pacifique Sapu, and together they shared 59 years of marriage. Kibambe was blessed with 19 children—17 living and 2 deceased, 78 grandchildren, and 29 great-grandchildren. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were among his greatest sources of pride and joy. Through his example, he taught perseverance, discipline, faith, responsibility, and the importance of leaving something meaningful for the next generation.
His greatest legacy is not only what he built in business or accomplished in service, but the family he leaves behind and the many lives he touched.
We mourn his passing, but we give thanks to God for the years we were blessed to share with him, for the memories he created, the lessons he taught, and the legacy he leaves behind.
As we remember his life, we hold close the words of Scripture:
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
— 2 Timothy 4:7
Kibambe will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of his family and all who knew him.
