Who Is Fridolin Ambongo Besungu? Age, Biography and Wiki
As of 2025, Fridolin Ambongo Besungu is 65 years old. He was born in the DRC and has spent decades serving in various capacities within the Catholic Church. He ascended to the status of Cardinal in 2019, becoming the first Cardinal from Kinshasa to be appointed since 1991, and he is known for his advocacy of peace and justice in the DRC amidst ongoing conflicts.
| Occupation | Activists |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 24, 1960 |
| Age | 65 Years |
| Birth Place | Boto, Belgian Congo |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country |
Popularity
Fridolin Ambongo Besungu's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Cardinal Ambongo's height is reported to be approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm), with a corresponding weight around 170 lbs (77 kg). While precise measurements are typically less relevant for religious figures, his physical presence is known to command respect within the clergy.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As a Cardinal, Fridolin Ambongo is celibate and does not engage in romantic relationships. The Roman Catholic Church's vow of celibacy for clergy members means that his focus remains on his ecclesiastical duties and the community he serves rather than on personal relationships.
Net Worth and Salary
Cardinal Ambongo’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million as of 2025. Most of this wealth is derived from his long tenure within the church, his work in various positions, and the initiatives he supports. While salary details are typically not disclosed for members of the clergy, Cardinals often receive stipends from the church and may have access to additional resources for charitable activities.
Career, Business and Investments
Fridolin Ambongo has had a distinguished career within the church, marked by notable positions that include Auxiliary Bishop of Kinshasa, Bishop of the diocese of Bokungu-Ikela, and finally his elevation to Cardinal. Beyond his ecclesiastical responsibilities, he has been actively involved in advocating for human rights, education, and socio-economic development within the DRC. While there are no public records of business ventures or personal investments, his focus remains on church-related activities and community service.
Ambongo served as a parish priest and as a professor before his episcopal career and since becoming a bishop has been a leading voice among his conferees for national peace. Pope Francis raised him to the rank of cardinal on 5 October 2019. In 2023 he became president of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar. He is a member of the Council of Cardinals.
Social Network
Cardinal Ambongo is an influential figure on social media, particularly on platforms like Twitter and Facebook. Through these channels, he communicates with followers and engages in discussions surrounding social justice, peace, and morality. His accounts serve as a platform for sharing inspirational messages and updates related to church activities.
Pope John Paul II appointed him Bishop of Bokungu-Ikela on 22 November 2004. He received his episcopal consecration on 6 March 2005 from Joseph Kumuondala Mbimba with the co-consecrators Giovanni d'Aniello and Cardinal Frédéric Etsou-Nzabi-Bamungwabi in an open-air Mass in front of the Bokungu Cathedral.
On 30 October 2008 Pope Benedict XVI named him apostolic administrator for Kole, a post he held until 9 August 2015. He made his first "ad limina" visit to Francis on 12 September 2014.
Education
Fridolin Ambongo pursued his education in various theological institutions. After completing his initial studies in philosophy and theology, he was ordained a priest in 1991. He has continued his theological education and has been known to engage with broader social issues through advocacy and discourse, demonstrating a commitment to both spiritual and educational development in his community.
He also entered the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin where he made his initial vows in 1981 and his perpetual profession in 1987. He later obtained a degree in moral theological studies from the Alphonsian Academy in Rome, and he speaks Italian.
Conclusion
In summary, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu stands as a vital leader within the Roman Catholic Church, with a deep commitment to social justice and peace in the DRC. His life, characterized by dedication and service, continues to inspire many in both his community and beyond.
