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: