The International Association of Methodist Schools, Colleges, and Universities (IAMSCU) is saddened to share the news of the passing of The Rev. Prof. Dr. Marie-Jeanne Sabu Kamwimba Zinga on October 16, 2025, in Lubumbashi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Dr. Zinga was a well-known Professor of Theology who served various churches and theological institutions in her country. She was recognized for her work promoting women’s rights in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and for encouraging local communities to empower women and challenge the traditional male-dominated decision-making structures. She was also involved in the Africa Association of United Methodist Theological Institutions (AAUMTI).
Dr. Marie-Jeanne Sabu Kamwimba Zinga was born on September 22, 1965. After her initial studies in South Congo, she entered the Methodist Faculty of Theology in Mulungwishi in 1991. After receiving her degree in Theology in 1994, she was ordained a Pastor in the United Methodist Church and became a well-known female leader in the United Methodist Community in Southern Congo and Zambia. She also served in Eastern Congo, where she was selected as the first female Senior Pastor at the International Protestant Centennial Cathedral in Kinshasa. In 2012, she defended her dissertation and received her doctorate in Theology, followed by a career as a Professor of Theology at several universities, including the Methodist University of Katanga (UMK), the Methodist University of Lubumbashi (UML), and the Methodist University of Kolwezi (UMKOL). Her last position was as Senior Pastor at the International Protestant Centennial Cathedral in Kinshasa. She passed away on Thursday, October 16, 2025, in Kinshasa, following a short illness.
Her Memorial Service took place on October 29, 2025, at the Centenary Memorial Cathedral in Lubumbashi, in a ceremony attended by several religious, political, administrative, religious and military authorities, including a large delegation of members of the International Protestant Cathedral in Kinshasa. Rev. Dr. Zinga was remembered as an exemplary mother, wife, theologian, and servant of God. She will be deeply missed by her husband and friend, Rev. Master Sabu Muwand, her five children and extended family, and friends. The International Association of Methodist Schools, Colleges, and Universities (IAMSCU) gives thanks for her life and legacy, especially for her impact promoting women’s rights and Methodist education in the Democratic Republic of Congo and in Africa. May her soul rest in peace.