Patrice Lumumba Quotes – First President of Congo 

Patrice Lumumba (1925-1961), born on July 2, 1925, was the first democratically elected Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo.  Unfortunately, in the prime of his youth, he was tragically assassinated at the age of 35. Congo and Africa were denied the wisdom and impacts of such a promising, charismatic and transformative leader. 

Lumumba’s leadership and policies were perceived as a threat to external influence and control and, therefore, were met with internal and external opposition. Hence, he met his end in a coup, just like other promising African leaders who had Africa at heart and strived for its economic prosperity. He was also betrayed by his fellow African family, without whom no external instigation would have succeeded.  No external force can win over a united and selfless family. Only a divided and selfish family can easily be penetrated by others. Therefore, Africa, again, betrayed its own and is to be blamed and no one else. 

However, despite his short life on earth, he left us with many words of wisdom, as discussed below.  

Popular Quotes by Patrice Lumumba 

Quote 1: African Unity and Solidarity

“African unity and solidarity are no longer dreams. They must be expressed in decisions.”

The quote reflects the need for African countries and leaders to transition from mere aspirations of unity and solidarity to concrete actions and decisions that foster collaboration and cooperation. In recent years, there has been a concerted effort among African nations to enhance regional integration through organizations like the African Union (AU) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This quote underscores the importance of making tangible decisions and policies to strengthen these integration efforts. 

While some nations are beginning to establish bilateral agreements for visa-free travel, it’s clear that a unified approach is needed to make Africa truly borderless. Also, to succeed at the global level, Africa must present a united front on the global stage to amplify its voices and enhance its influence in international affairs, advocating for its collective interests and priorities. 

Quote 2: Imperfection

“No one is perfect in this imperfect world.”

This quote speaks to the universal truth that imperfection is inherent to human existence. It acknowledges that every individual, society, and system has flaws and limitations. It encourages acceptance of ourselves and our failures and mistakes as part of the human experience. In a world that often glorifies perfection, this quote challenges societal norms and expectations that place undue pressure on individuals to conform to unrealistic standards of perfection.

Therefore, it is crucial to recognize Africa’s faults, mistakes, and challenges in its development journey. Africa cannot continue blaming others for its woes and expect to find solutions to the problems. Once you don’t see yourself as part of the problem, you have no control over the solution. Therefore, let us acknowledge our imperfections and let them serve as a catalyst for improvement.

Quote 3: Comfort and Virtue

“A minimum of comfort is necessary for the practice of virtue.”

This quote by Lumumba highlights the critical responsibility of African leaders to prioritize meeting the basic needs of African citizens. Without a foundation of basic comfort and security, individuals find it challenging to prioritize moral judgement. It prompts consideration of whether some leaders deliberately perpetuate poverty to manipulate citizens with material gifts in exchange for votes and raises questions about whether poverty plays a significant role in why the masses often resort to selling their votes. This situation is undoubtedly complex and demands selfless and servant leadership that prioritizes the well-being of the people. It also requires a literate population capable of meeting their basic needs, which is essential for making informed decisions.

Quote 4: The Suicide of Africa

“We know that Africa is neither French, nor British, nor American, nor Russian, that it is African. Yet, Africa has been divided into tribes, clans, and villages. These divisions, which the colonial powers have always exploited, played an important role in colonialism and slave trade — and are still playing that role — in the suicide of Africa”.

This powerful quote underscores the importance of African unity and self-determination in the face of historical and ongoing efforts by external powers to divide and control the continent. The quote reaffirms the unique identity of Africa and its peoples, and the need for Africa to assert its own interests.  It highlights that if African countries continue to focus on their differences rather than shared goals and interests, they will forever be subject to exploitation and poverty. 

Quote 5: Exploitation of African Resources

“The colonialists care nothing for Africa for her own sake. They are attracted by African riches and their actions are guided by the desire to preserve their interests in Africa against the wishes of the African people. For the colonialists all means are good if they help them to possess these riches.”

This quote by Patrice Lumumba highlights how colonialists viewed Africa primarily as a source of wealth and resources to exploit for their benefit. This perspective led to the plundering of natural resources and slavery. They portrayed themselves as benevolent rulers while exploiting African labour and resources for their own gain. Despite these, Africa and the West know better now the value of human dignity and the need to support and complement each other as equal souls who live to die. Therefore, we cannot continue to blame colonial masters for our current predicament. We must take responsibility for our actions and inactions.

Quote 6: Legacy and Responsibility

“As to my children whom I leave and may never see again, I should like them to be told that it is for them, as it is for every Congolese, to accomplish the sacred task of reconstructing our independence and sovereignty.”

This heartfelt message reflects Lumumba’s desire to instill a sense of purpose and responsibility in his children and all Congolese despite the uncertainty of their future together. The quote highlights the intergenerational nature of the struggle for freedom and independence. Lumumba recognizes that the future of Africa lies in the hands of the next generation and beyond. Therefore, it’s imperative for African parents and leaders to acknowledge the importance of empowering youth from an early age. By granting them opportunities to make decisions, learn from mistakes, and cultivate independence to foster their growth and confidence. Continuously treating them as mere children who must remain silent in the presence of adults can stifle their development, leading to timidity and a lack of confidence. Let’s embrace a culture that values the voices and potential of our youth, nurturing them into bold and capable leaders of tomorrow.

Quote 7: Strength in Unity

“Dead or alive, free or in prison by order of the imperialists, it is not I myself who count. It is the Congo.”

Lumumba rejected the notion of personal significance and affirmed his allegiance to the Congo’s cause, even in the face of potential persecution or imprisonment. While a leader may play a significant role in guiding and influencing progress, no single individual can single-handedly bring about significant change if the broader community is not aligned with the vision for progress.

Moreover, entrenched interests benefiting from the status quo may actively resist change, as individuals or groups may oppose reforms that threaten their privileges or disrupt existing power structures. Therefore, achieving meaningful change and prosperity necessitates widespread engagement and commitment from the majority of society. It requires overcoming resistance, fostering collective action, and navigating complex social dynamics to create a shared vision for a better future.

Quote 8: The African Tale from Within

“The day will come when history will speak… Africa will write its own history, and it will be, to the north and to the south of the Sahara, a history of glory and dignity.”

Lumumba envisions a time when we Africans will reclaim our voice and agency and become the authors of our own history. The quote emphasizes the potential for Africa, as a continent, to transcend its colonial past and shape a history characterized by glory and dignity. Lumumba encourages us to strive to make Africa better and celebrate our achievements and cultural heritage.

Quote 9: Unity and Solidarity Against Colonialism

“We are not alone. Africa, Asia, and the free and liberated peoples in every corner of the globe will ever remain at the side of the millions of Congolese who will not abandon the struggle until the day when there will be no more colonizers and no more of their mercenaries in our country.”

The quote signifies the solidarity and support that Lumumba believed the Congolese people had from other nations and individuals when they fought against colonialism. Lumumba was of the view that the Congolese people’s struggle against colonization was not an isolated endeavour. The quote recognized that injustice against one nation is injustice against every nation that respects and acknowledges the sovereignty and rights of others. 

Quote 10: Role of Women in Development

“We have known ironies, insults, and battles for dignity. But now we are going to know the joy of having all these, our children, at our side. And when the history of our country is written, the foremost part of the battle will have been taken by women.”

This quote emphasize the age old saying that nothing last forever including your worries, problems, and pain. Therefore, regardless of your situation, do understand that it is just a face of life, and with time, another chapter will open. Lumumba’s quote challenges gender stereotypes and implies that the contributions of women will be an essential part of the country’s historical narrative. It signifies the need for unity and collaboration, where men and women stand together to overcome challenges and build a better future. 

Quote 11: Economic and Industrial Development

“The independence of the Congo is meaningless unless it is backed by the economic and industrial development of the country.”

Lumumba’s quote suggests that achieving political independence alone is insufficient for the Congo and Africa to truly prosper and assert their sovereignty. The adage “he who feeds you controls you” highlights the importance of self-reliance and value creation in relationships. Africa must strive to offer tangible value internally and globally to earn recognition and respect as equal partners. A mutually respectful relationship requires each party to contribute meaningfully to the other’s interests and aspirations. By focusing on providing value to itself and the international community, Africa can assert its independence and foster relationships built on mutual respect and collaboration.

By: Huzeima Mahamadu