Grace Kutino: From Pastor’s Daughter to DR Congo’s Youth Minister

In a bold move that merges faith, resilience, and youth leadership, President Félix Tshisekedi has appointed Grace Emie Kutino, daughter of the influential and controversial pastor Kutino Fernando, as Minister of Youth in the new government led by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa.

Her appointment isn't just a political decision; it’s a symbolic moment in DR Congo’s evolving youth narrative.

A Life Rooted in Faith and Family Struggles

Grace’s story begins in the heart of Congo’s religious community. A trained pastor and daughter of Archbishop Kutino Fernando, the founder of the "Army of Victory" church, she grew up witnessing both the power and the trials of spiritual leadership.

Her father was sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2008 under the Kabila regime, accused of attempted murder and possession of weapons, charges many believe were politically motivated. Grace never gave up on him. Her public support for his release, her activism, and her continued leadership of his church during and after his incarceration revealed a deep strength beyond her years.

She once said, “A thousand times, I would have preferred my father be incarcerated under this regime [Tshisekedi’s] than the other. Tortured, humiliated… He resisted, prayed, and hoped. But how much suffering can a body endure?”

An Inspirational Voice for Congo’s Youth

Long before her appointment, Grace was already building bridges with young people. Whether rallying youth to register for elections, leading peace dialogues in churches, or organizing civic training sessions, she believed young Congolese must not just vote, they must lead.

“We must write a new history of our country,” she once declared. “It’s up to us to choose the decision-makers.”

Her past speeches show a young woman driven by faith but deeply connected to the political and civic realities of the DRC. In her own words:

Grace’s appointment also sends a clear message: women and people of faith have a role in shaping DR Congo’s future. Her deep connection with religious networks and her mother’s enduring strength during her father’s prison years have inspired many young girls.

One viral moment was when she gifted her mother a brand-new jeep, thanking her for years of sacrifice and resilience, a powerful gesture of honor and legacy.

What’s Next for Grace Kutino?

As Minister of Youth, Grace inherits a ministry with enormous expectations. DR Congo’s youth make up more than half of the population. The country struggles with unemployment, apathy, and disillusionment, but also holds immense untapped potential.

Will she deliver? Time will tell. But her vision is clear:

• Civic reawakening

• Moral leadership

• Faith in action

And building a youth movement that reflects the hope of a better DR Congo

Grace Kutino’s rise is more than a personal success; it’s a beacon of what’s possible when pain turns into purpose. In a generation tired of old politics, her journey could reignite faith in the system.