Antoine Salambongo

Antoine Salambongo also known as “Tate” was born in the year 1917 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to Kasai and Muhindo. Tate was an only child and lost his mother shortly after birth. Tate Antoine was baptized in the Catholic Church and remained a faithful Catholic throughout his entire life. He later married Venancia Nyiragato with whom they had 10 children.

As a young boy, he started working as a tree planter in the city of Luofu, DRC. From there he worked with foreign travellers as a secretary for a food distribution center, a construction worker to build fencing for the livestock of Mwami Ndeze, and a worker to burn the lime used to build housing for foreign travelers. Tate Antoine also spent the majority of his life farming as well as helping people in the community through herbal medicine. Tate Antoine eventually lost his eyesight and with the war zone in his village, was forced to move to Goma, DRC where he remained under the care of his daughter Alphonsine Salambongo for the remainder of his life.

Despite his age and lack of sight, Tate Antoine remained vibrant and independent by feeding himself and engaging in warm conversations with those around him up until his death. Tate Antoine was also known for his deep joyful laughter that could fill a room. He used music, dancing, singing Latin hymns, and drumming as ways of celebrating life. Known for his unwavering devotion to the Catholic faith, he prayed the rosary daily for both family and strangers. His spiritual life was deeply personal and beautifully expressive. One of his most memorable traditions was giving blessings. Tate Antoine would gently draw a cross on a person’s forehead using his saliva. While not common, those who received the blessing regarded it as a sacred gesture believed to carry a power and sincerity like no other.

Tate Antoine departed in his daughter’s arms on Monday September 1, 2025 at the age of 108. He is preceded in death by his parents Muhindo and Kasai, his daughter Katungu , and Katungu’s children. Tate Antoine is survived by his beloved wife Venancia Nyiragato; children, Masika, Muhindo, Kavira, Kabuo, Kahambu, Kambale, Kasereka, Kakule, Kyakimwa and Katungu Salambongo; 65  grandchildren; 36 great grandchildren; 4 great great grandchildren; as well as nieces, and nephews, all of whom will continue to carry his legacy of faith, joy, and selflessness.

Tate Antoine lived a fully remarkable life of resilience, perseverance, hard work, and grace. Above all, his heart belonged to God. He lived each day with humility, generosity, and faith. Tate Antoine will truly be missed.