Eminent philosopher, writer and academic, Mudimberev used all these caps at once. He marked the world of his intelligence and profound humanity. Mudimbe went through the eras and his disappearance on 22 April 2025 left a huge void, but his intellectual and spiritual heritage still illuminates our reflections. There are beings whose light never extinguishes, even in the silence of their departure. V-Y Mudimbe is a leading figure in African thought, and one of the major voices of post-colonial studies. His work, humility, and humanity continue to vibrate in the hearts of those who have known and admired him. The testimony of Father Toussaint Kafarhire, SJ, Director General of the Arrupe Centre for Research and Training (CARF), who met and met him, gives this tribute an exceptional spiritual and emotional depth.
A life dedicated to the quest for meaning
Born in Likasi in 1941, in what was then the Congo-Belgian, under the shadow of colonization, Mudimbe grew up in a period marked by structural inequalities and a dynamic of cultural oppression. This period was decisive for his intellectual development, because his free and curious mind guided him towards unsuspecting horizons of reflection. For over 40 years he had lived in the United States where he taught at prestigious universities. Philosopher, he dedicated his life to deconstructing colonial narratives and redefining African identity. In his moving words, Father Kafarhire emphasizes: « This man also went to join our ancestors. 2025 will be a rich year! And Easter will make sense of ‘passage' and eternal life. » Mudimbe embodied this notion of passage, a trait of union between temporal and eternal. His questions and thoughts from other times remain relevant.
An invaluable intellectual and spiritual heritage
Mudimbe was a pioneer of post-colonial studies. For example, in one of its most important works, « The Invention of Africa » (invention of Africa) (1988), It raises questions about the very complex links between Africa and the West, which determine attitudes, reasons for being, exercise of thought and practice of knowledge. He explored ways in which Africa was conceptualized by Western narratives, while reaffirming the richness of African knowledge.
Beyond his writings, he was a deeply humble soul. Father Kafarhire is grateful for this: « V.Y. Mudimbe is of those souls who enjoy the taste of eternity while still being prisoners of mortality and time. I have had the chance to meet you, to welcome you and to be your guest, and I will cherish these moments that have passed in your presence. » The scientific world is deeply affected by the disappearance of Mudimbe, since this spiritual bond between him and his contemporaries is an indelible mark of his impact.
Mudimbe: human, mentor, and eternal visionary for Africa and the world
Mudimbe was not only an intellectual, but also a mentor, a brother and a light for those around him. His close friends and colleagues remember his humility and wisdom. Father Kafarhire continues with emotion: « We had the chance to know you as a brother, a master, a mentor, a light! I bow to your humility, dear V.Y., and thank God and our ancestors for the gift of your life to our continent and to the world. » These words reflect the spiritual and human impact of Mudimbe, which transcends his academic work. Mudimbe leaves us a legacy that invites us to reflect, not only on Africa, but also on the human condition. The testimony of Father Kafarhire, who illustrates the faith and hope for a future where Mudimbe's ideas will continue to guide generations, sums it up with a touching elegance: « I will continue to nourish my soul with your wisdom and thoughts. Greet Pope Francis from me when you meet! Rest in peace. »
RIP, dear V-Y Mudimbe!
V-Y Mudimbe is no longer among us, but his spirit lives in his writings and in the hearts of those who were touched by his genius. His departure is a reminder that life, though temporal, can transcend the limits of time when it is illuminated by the search for truth and light. Father Toussaint Kafarhire, in offering his sincere testimony, reminds us of the invaluable value of Mudimbe for Africa and for the world. His work and humility will forever be engraved in our memories.
What matters is not the years in life, but the life that one puts in the years, Rest in peace, Dear Mudimbe, and that the Most High receives you in his eternal home!
Elie E. Bokele, Executive Assistant
