The death of Congolese basketball player Mutombo Dikembe, world basketball legend, was discussed during the sixteenth meeting of the Council of Ministers, held on Friday October 4, 2024 at the Cité de l’Union Africaine. Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka, bowing to the memory of this internationally renowned sportsman, praised his “exceptional” career at the prestigious American basketball championship (NBA). She also paid tribute to Mutombo, an emblematic figure of Congolese and world youth, for his sporting qualities and his humanitarian and social commitment through the Mutombo Dikembe Foundation.
“The commitment of its structures in strengthening health, education and quality of life is of undeniable contribution. A large part of the population of Kinshasa benefits from health care at the Biamba Marie hospital Mutombo,” the minutes of the meeting highlighted.
The Prime Minister expressed her expectation for proposals on how the country should honor the memory of Mutombo Dikembe.
“The Democratic Republic of Congo is proud of this worthy son who became an internationally renowned champion, to whom the whole world pays tribute today. It awaits from the Secretary General of the Government, in collaboration with the ministers concerned, proposals to honor and celebrate the memory of this icon of international basketball,” the report continues.
Dikembe Mutombo, four-time winner of the title of best defender and one of the emblematic figures of the NBA, died at the age of 58 from brain cancer. Famous for his dominant role on defense and his famous “Mutombo Finger Wag” (finger wagging gesture after a successful block), he leaves an immense legacy in the world of basketball and beyond.
Born in Kinshasa, Mutombo is recognized as one of the best defenders in NBA history, with 3,289 blocks to his name, placing him second behind Hakeem Olajuwon. He was selected to the All-Star Game eight times and led the Philadelphia 76ers and New Jersey Nets to the NBA Finals in 2001 and 2003. His career began in 1991 with the Denver Nuggets before playing for the Atlanta Hawks , Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks, and Houston Rockets, where he retired in 2009.
Clement MUAMBA
