Adele Kibasumba Apologizes to All Banyamulenge as Mahoro Peace Association Completes Historic Leadership Hand-Over

The Mahoro Peace Association (MPA), a community-driven organization founded after the Gatumba massacre in 2004, has officially completed its latest leadership transition. Former president Adele Kibasumba delivered a heartfelt farewell message to the global Banyamulenge community, expressing both gratitude and humility as she handed over the reins to the new leadership team of Douglas G. Kabunda and Clement Bagaza. 

In a message circulated via WhatsApp, Adele reflected on the sacrifices made by members of MPA and the resilience shown by the Banyamulenge and broader Tutsi community in Eastern DRC. 

“I sincerely thank you for your dedication, for the countless days and nights you worked tirelessly to ensure that our people were not exterminated as our enemies had wished,” wrote Kibasumba. “There is no greater victory than seeing our homeland still inhabited.” 

She went on to acknowledge that leadership is never without imperfection and humbly asked for forgiveness. 

“I know that we are not God who does everything without mistakes, and that is why I humbly ask you to forgive us for the few things that didn’t go as you would have liked,” she said. 

Her emotional farewell not only served as a moment of closure but also a call to unity. Adele urged all members to support the new executive team, encouraging everyone to work together to build on the foundation that has been laid. 

“Let us now all unite and support the new leadership led by Douglas Kabunda & Clement Bagaza. We wish them peace and progress.” 

Her final reminder was simple but powerful: 

“Our unity is our strength. Long live MPA! We are together!” 

The Mahoro Peace Association, with more than 7,000 members across 45+ U.S. states, continues to serve as a cornerstone of unity and advocacy for the Banyamulenge diaspora. It champions both the well-being of its members in the U.S. and humanitarian support for victims of conflict in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

Under Adele Kibasumba and Vice President Jado Ndaruhuye, the outgoing leadership oversaw some of the most challenging times for the community. Their efforts included coordinating aid for war victims, supporting survivors of sexual violence, and fostering diaspora integration through youth and women empowerment programs. 

In June 2025, Douglas G. Kabunda was elected President of MPA. In his first statement, he reaffirmed the association’s unwavering commitment to peace, inclusion, and service to both the U.S.-based members and those affected by conflict back home. 

“This is not just a personal milestone—it is a collective affirmation of our shared commitment to peace, unity, and progress,” Kabunda posted on X. 

As Vice President, Clement Bagaza brings fresh energy to MPA’s leadership. Together, the duo aims to strengthen existing programs and introduce new initiatives that promote dignity, justice, and stability for the Congolese diaspora and vulnerable populations in Eastern DRC. 

The peaceful hand-over from Adele Kibasumba to Douglas Kabunda signifies more than a routine leadership change, it reflects a community’s maturity, resilience, and shared vision for the future. It is also a moment of reckoning and grace, as Adele’s public apology demonstrates humility and accountability rarely seen in public life. 

As MPA moves forward under new leadership, Adele’s final message continues to resonate: “Our unity is our strength.”