THE
PROFESSOR & THE
STRATEGIST
Barnabé Kikaya Bin Karubi
"This Congo is not just a country; it is a destiny. Our duty is to ensure that this destiny remains in the hands of its people."
A Life of Service & Intellect
Barnabé Kikaya Bin Karubi is a distinguished Congolese scholar, diplomat, and statesman. His career is a testament to the intersection of intellectual rigor and high-stakes statecraft. As a long-serving servant of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, he has stood at the forefront of the nation's diplomatic battles and reconstruction efforts.
Education & Early Career
An intellectual by training, Dr. Kikaya holds a Ph.D. in Political Science and Journalism from Boston University (1989), as well as a degree in English Language and Literature from the University of Lubumbashi. His diverse academic background laid the foundation for a global worldview that bridges the Anglophone and Francophone spheres.
Before entering politics, he honed his communication skills as Editor-in-Chief of Canal Afrique in Johannesburg, South Africa, and founded the communication consultancy Afro 2C (1995-1997).
Diplomatic & Political Leadership
Dr. Kikaya's political ascent coincides with pivotal moments in Congolese history. Under President Laurent-Désiré Kabila, he was appointed Ambassador to Zimbabwe, a critical ally during the war. Later, under President Joseph Kabila, he took on the vital role of Minister of Information (2001-2003), serving as the voice of the government during the Sun City peace negotiations.
- •Principal Diplomatic Advisor (2015-2018)Served as the chief foreign policy architect for the Head of State, navigating complex geopolitical landscapes.
- •Ambassador to the United Kingdom (2009-2014)Revitalized relations with London, representing the DRC as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary.
- •Member of Parliament (elected 2006)Represented the Kasongo constituency (Maniema), serving on the External Relations Commission.
Academic Legacy
Beyond the corridors of power, "The Professor" has never left the classroom. Since 2005, he has served as a Professor of Information and Communication Sciences at the University of Kinshasa (UNIKIN). He is also a Distinguished Research Associate at the University of Johannesburg (CADL), contributing to pan-African discourse on diplomacy and leadership.