Monthly Archives: October 2024

Silke Endress International, Editor-In-Chief Remembers Dikembe Mutombo

God has called home another faithful servant. Losing Dikembe Mutombo is a heartbreaking loss, not just for the basketball community, but for the world at large.

He was so much more than an NBA Hall of Famer, he was a true humanitarian, a voice for the voiceless, especially marginalized women and children. Working with him on women’s rights projects with Silke Endress International, the UN, and CARE was an honor. We didn’t just attend conferences like the Bloomberg Global Business Summit, CARE or McCain Institute, a common interest; we shared stories, exchanged ideas, and best practices for sustained growth. In 2010, I remember Dikembe asking me to stand on a chair to take a photo so I can be his equal in height and passion.

When Dikembe spoke on panels discussions, I listened carefully and was always in awe of his unwavering commitment to human rights. His passion was just as towering as his presence on the court.

Dikembe always stood tall, not just in height, but in his moral convictions. Just as he was a defensive powerhouse in basketball, blocking shots with ease, he defended those who didn’t have access to health services, education, or economic opportunities, particularly in his homeland, the Democratic Republic of Congo. He was relentless, whether it was on the court or fighting for justice. He embodied what it means to be a champion, both in sports and in life.

Dikembe will be deeply missed, but his legacy of kindness, advocacy, and resilience will continue to inspire. Rest in peace, Dikembe. The world was better with you in it.

Statement from President Clinton and Secretary Clinton on the Passing of Dikembe Mutombo

For Immediate Release: September 30, 2024

Hillary and I are deeply saddened by the passing of our friend Dikembe Mutombo, a legendary basketball player, devoted humanitarian, and profoundly good man.  I’ll never forget hosting his large family at the White House.  They filled the whole stairway down to the South Lawn.

As commanding as he was on the court, he was even better off it, with a big heart to match his 7-foot-2-inch frame, a great sense of humor, and an unshakeable commitment to helping people everywhere, especially in his native Democratic Republic of the Congo.  His proudest achievement was the state-of-the-art hospital he built in Kinshasa in honor of his mother, which Hillary loved visiting in 2009.

Dikembe was also an active member of the Clinton Global Initiative community from the very beginning, making and keeping commitments to support the hospital and more economic opportunity across Africa.  He was the real deal and inspired everyone at CGI to follow his lead.  He once told me that he blocked shots for a living, but he lived to save lives and open doors.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Rose, his children, and everyone else who loved him, was inspired by him, and is living a better life today because of him.