On October 8, 2021, I had the pleasure of conversing with Maman Monique Misenga Ngoie Mukuna in Kinshasa on her recently published autobiography, Cradling Abundance: One African Christian's Story of Empowering Women and Fighting Systemic Poverty (2021). We had discussed the nonprofit organization Femme, Berceau de l'Abondance (FEBA), or “Woman, Cradle of Abundance,” founded by Maman Monique, Maman Agnes Anekumba Umadjela, Maman Marie-Jeanne Kapinga Kayuwa, Maman Pauline Mfulu, Maman Jacqueline Ndidila, and Maman Baila. One of FEBA's main programs is its sewing school, which equips girls and women with the skills to become self-sufficient tailors. Thus, FEBA utilizes fashion as an avenue through which girls and women can earn a living to support themselves and their families.
When I received the manuscript prior to meeting with Maman Monique, I noticed that she is listed as the primary author on the title page, along with Princeton Theological Seminary professor Elsie Tshimunyi...