In memoriam
In remembrance of UNICEF colleagues who touched many lives
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Marcel Abaki
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Marcel Abaki on 12 March 2026.
Marcel joined UNICEF in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in April 2014 as a driver based in Kinshasa, before being reassigned to Mbandaka in August 2023.
His colleagues remember him as a deeply kind and helpful man, always ready to support others. His smile, warmth and strong sense of duty left a lasting impression on all who worked alongside him.
At the age of 61, Marcel is survived by his wife, Annie Nkenda, and their seven children: Gloria, Jeremia, Millenaire, Rex-Michel, Megan, Exauce-Salomon and Ketsia.
Karine Buisset
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our colleague and friend Karine Buisset on 11 March 2026.
Karine joined UNICEF in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in May 2024 as a Programme Specialist based in Goma. She worked tirelessly to strengthen systems for the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse, helping to build safer programmes.
Those who had the privilege of working alongside her remember a deeply committed woman whose warmth and radiant spirit were felt by all. Her kindness, positive energy and strong convictions left a lasting impression on colleagues and partners alike.
At the age of 54, Karine is survived by her two daughters, Pema and Lin, and her granddaughter, Gaïa.
Dr Pierre Bakatubia Kanku
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dr Pierre Bakatubia Kanku on 22 November 2025.
Dr Baka joined UNICEF in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on 1 January 2005, where he served with dedication and professionalism until his retirement on 31 October 2025.
Affectionately known as the “dean” by his colleagues, he was appreciated for his reliability, his attentive nature, and his deep commitment to the well-being of children.
At the beginning of 2025, during the evacuation of the Goma office, he distinguished himself through his steady presence, supporting children, colleagues, and family members who remained in Goma. His sense of duty, kindness, and wisdom left a lasting impression on all who worked alongside him.
A man with a generous heart, Dr Baka will be fondly remembered by his family and by all those who knew him.
Régine Ndjibu Mudimbi
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear colleague and friend Regine Ndjibu Mudimbi, on 7 November 2023.
Regine joined UNICEF in 2008 as a Programme Assistant in Mbuji-Mayi. In 2012, Regine was assigned to Kinshasa, and in 2018, to Kananga as a Nutrition Officer, a position she held until her passing.
Regine was a professional and diligent colleague, even when she suffered while fighting against illness.
Regine was 52 years old and is survived by her husband and her children Bibi, Kikumbi, Malangu, Regine, Celine and Kiss.
Raphaël Mihari Aluta
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved colleague, Raphaël Mihari Aluta, on 19 November 2022.
A national of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Raphaël joined UNICEF in 2006 as a Logistics Consultant in Mbuji-Mayi. In 2007, Raphaël became a Programme Assistant in Mbuji-Mayi. From 2008 until his passing, he worked as an Education Officer in the Kananga office, where he actively participated in the 2022 annual review of the Programme of Cooperation.
Raphaël is remembered as a colleague with a strong sense of humor who knew how to cultivate love and friendship. He always found ironic words to console a sad colleague and to bring a smile to the face of a stressed colleague. He was called "General" by those close to him, reflecting his position as a senior member of the office.
He was 63 years old and is survived by his wife Adolphine Nyabusi, and six children, Amani, Tcheusi, Makungu, Aluta, Mayaza, and Kabuya.
Christian Nyembwe Mawole
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our friend and colleague Christian Nyembwe Mawole on 21 December 2022.
Christian joined UNICEF in July 2008 as a Programme Assistant in Bandundu. In 2018, Christian was assigned to Mbandaka, and in 2020, he was assigned to Kinshasa as a Programme Associate, a position he held until his passing.
Christian was a golden gift, a great example of a staff member committed to UNICEF's values, a peaceful human being, an exceptional performer, a genuine spirit, very friendly, and always eager to learn and help. He brought a piece of the rainbow to UNICEF DRC.
Christian was 42 years old and is survived by his spouse Ginette Ndaume, and their three children, Honey, Heri, and Hanniel.
Vincent Masumbuko
It is with great sadness that we inform you that our colleague, Vincent Masumbuko, passed away on 17 August 2020.
Vincent joined UNICEF DRC on 8 September 2008, as a WASH Officer in the Mbandaka Field Office. Prior to joining UNICEF, Vincent worked as a WASH Specialist for the DRC Government, and then went on to humanitarian work with international non-governmental organizations where he had an outstanding track record.
His colleagues who affectionately called him "Papa Vincent" will remember him fondly for his genuine inter-personal relations and his dedication for helping others.
Only a few months away from retirement, Vincent is survived by his bereaved wife Marguerite Lundi, seven children and a grandson.