The Hekima University College and Community mourns the death of Fr. Paulin Manwelo, SJ, a renowned scholar, educator, and Jesuit priest who dedicated his life to intellectual rigor, excellence, and bold leadership. Fr. Manwelo died in Nairobi on February 22, 2025, following a long illness. He was 64 years old.
Born in Kikwit, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), on May 23, 1960, Fr. Manwelo joined the Society of Jesus on September 17, 1980. His priestly career was marked by deep commitment, which led to his ordination on July 18, 1993, and final vows on January 1, 2006. Throughout his life, he remained committed to his vocation, constantly seeking for greater service to the Church and society.
Fr. Manwelo played a key role in the founding and expansion of the Hekima Institute of Peace Studies and International Relations (HIPSIR). As Director, he was instrumental in defining the institute’s vision and academic programs, promoting an environment conducive to critical thought and research. His achievements went beyond Hekima, with academic appointments at Loyola University in Congo, Magis University in Madagascar, Arrupe College in Zimbabwe, Boston College in the United States, and the University of Kinshasa, among others. His intellectual legacy is reflected in his numerous writings, insightful teachings, and commitment to high-quality scholarship.
A man of strong convictions, he personified three basic values: rigor, quality, and bravery. He was noted for his intellectual rigor and meticulous work ethic, which ensured that his research and lessons were of the greatest quality. His commitment to excellence was evident in his sermons, talks, and writings, all of which demonstrated serious reflection and a rich inner life. Furthermore, he encouraged audacity, continually pushing the boundaries of knowledge, fostering creativity, and empowering his students and colleagues to explore new ideas without fear which is shown in his extensive writing, smart teaching, and dedication to high-quality scholarship.
In the face of illness, Fr. Manwelo remained resilient. In recent weeks, he was hospitalized in Antananarivo, Madagascar, where he had been teaching since 2022. As his health deteriorated, he was transferred to Nairobi, arriving on February 20, 2025, and was admitted to Coptic Mission Hospital. On the morning of February 22, he peacefully returned to the Eternal Father.
The homily at the requiem Mass was delivered by Jesuit Conference of Africa and Madagascar (JCAM) President, Fr. José Minaku Lukoli, SJ in the Hekima University College Chapel on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 12:10 PM. He reflected on the fleeting nature of life. He remarked that, at the moment of death, a person’s face fades into the night and gradually disappears, leaving behind only shared experiences—laughter and tears, successes and struggles, fears endured. He likened it to the footprints of a traveler on soft cement—though the traveler is gone, the imprints remain, telling the story of their journey. Fr. Minaku described Fr. Manwelo as a ‘lone rider,’ a discreet and humble man. He noted how quietly Fr. Manwelo arrived in Nairobi for treatment, and just as they learned he was there, he was already bidding them grand farewell.
Following the Mass, his body will be prepared and airlifted back to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), his home country.
As we say goodbye to a revered companion, teacher, mentor, and friend, we are grateful for Fr. Paulin Manwelo, SJ’s life. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and his legacy continue to inspire future generations.
Geoffrey Obatsa
Jesuit Historical Institute in Africa
