The Restoring Hope Ministries team is united by a shared passion for serving Jesus Christ and the people of Dungu, DRC. With a committed team in the DRC and support in the USA, we work hand in hand to bring healing, encouragement, and practical support to a community we deeply love. Rooted in our faith in Jesus Christ, we believe in walking alongside one another and those we serve, building relationships that reflect hope, dignity, and transformation.
Bagudekia Alobeyo
Executive Director, Restoring Hope Ministries, Co-Founder & Rector – UBECA
Bagu, born and raised in Eastern DRC, is a pastor, educator, and seasoned project leader. He holds a Master’s degree from Faculté de Théologie Evangélique de Bangui and a Doctorate in Ministry from Westminster Theological Seminary. He leadership has spanned roles as Senior Pastor, national vice president of CECA20, church planter, youth pastor, Bible school director, and director for Geneva Global’s West Africa region. As co-founder and rector of UBECA, he brings extensive experience in project management, monitoring, and evaluation, shaping leaders and advancing education and ministry across Central Africa.
Bagu lives in Philadelphia with his wife Suzanne and their five sons.
Dirk Friend
Board Member – Restoring Hope Ministries
Dirk is a retired architect with over 30 years of experience in architectural design and construction management. Since 2014, he has focused on applying architectural and construction strategies in Africa, contributing to the design and construction of key RHM facilities, including the Guest House, Training Building, and church campus projects in Ethiopia. He has served on church elder boards and has been a member of RHM’s Executive Committee since 2015, currently serving as Board President.
Dirk and his wife have three children and live in Easton, Pennsylvania, USA.
Émile Zola Zefuyo Bakalawa
Anesthesiologist and Intensive Care Specialist – Dungu, DRC
Émile Zola Zefuyo, born in Banda in 1970, is a dedicated anesthesiologist and intensive care specialist committed to improving healthcare for the people of Dungu. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Anesthesia and Resuscitation and has pursued advanced training in surgery, critical care, and medical management across the DRC and abroad. Throughout his career, he has cared for displaced populations during the LRA war, supported widows and orphans, provided medication, and helped train medical staff. Émile is actively involved in the development of the Bâtissons l’Espoir clinic and RHM healthcare initiatives.
Emile and his wife are raising their family in Dungu, DRC.
Michel Mibitile Mbilambila
Project Coordinator for RHM/Battissons L’Espoir– Dungu, DRC
Michel Mibitile was born in Dungu, DRC. He has over two decades of experience in education, humanitarian programs, and trauma rehabilitation. He has served as a teacher, program coordinator, and university logistician leading initiatives that strengthen local communities. Since 2016, Michel has been a key figure in advancing RHM’s work in Dungu, including new church plants, trauma healing projects, and the creation of UBECA University.
Michel is married and the father of five children. He and his wife live in Ariwara, but spends much time working for RHM/BE in Dungu, DRC.
Moïse Kumbila Kulukukumbo
Pastor-in-Charge of CECA20 Church Philadelphia Dungu & Hope House Manager
Moïse was born in Dungu and is a pastor, educator, and community leader. He has served in roles as Chaplain, Rector’s Office Director, Manager at UBECA University, and as Pastor-in-Charge of CECA20 Church Philadelphia. He has also worked in trauma research and youth leadership development. Through RHM, he has supported trauma healing, education, and the development of widows and war-affected families.
Moise lives in Dungu with his wife and three children.
Tamara Igie Omeyo
RHM/Battissons L’Espoir Leadership Team – Dungu, DRC
Born in Dungu, Tamara Omeyo has spent her life teaching and empowering women, families, and communities. She has led trauma healing, peacebuilding, and development initiatives, including partnerships with CRS, Oxfam Québec, and Conciliation Resources. Through RHM, she has seen youth access education at UBECA University and communities benefit from clean water and healthcare programs.
Tamara is married to Benjamin Mokili-Pasi, and their family lives in Dungu, DRC.
Bejamain Kulube Mokili-Pasi
Educational Advisor and Principal – Dungu, DRC
Bejamain Kulube, born in Napusi, is an experienced educator and community leader. He has served as a principal, educational advisor, and vice-president of the trauma program in Dungu, guiding schools and programs that develop both academic and spiritual growth. Through RHM, he has supported UBECA University, the Faculty of Medicine clinic, and the placement of student pastors in local churches.
Bejamain is married to Tamara Omeyo and their family lives in Dungu, DRC.
David Yabie Mbolitini
Educator and Trainer – Dungu, DRC
David Yabie, born in Kiliwa, is an educator and community trainer with decades of experience in teaching Christian education, journalism, and radio management. Through RHM, he has contributed to UBECA University, a community clinic, and a water project serving Dungu. He hopes to expand RHM’s impact by introducing short-term professional training programs to equip more people with practical skills.
David is married with children and they live in Dungu, DRC.
Siuka Kamiaduwai
Pastor and Church Leader – Dungu, DRC
Siuka Kamiaduwai, born in Duungu, has dedicated his life to teaching, pastoral ministry, and community leadership. He has served as a primary school teacher, Sunday school teacher, pastor, and church leader, guiding both spiritual and educational growth in Dungu. Through RHM, he has supported UBECA University, a community clinic, and trauma healing programs, expanding educational opportunities for students from across the region.
Siuka is married with children and lives in Dungu, DRC.
Steven Schetelich
Board Member – Restoring Hope Ministries, Easton, PA, USA
Steven is a retired public school teacher from New Jersey with a BA and MA in Education. He has served on the RHM Board for over five years and has been a committed elder in multiple churches in the Lehigh Valley, PA. His ministry experience includes directing a small Christian summer camp and mentoring students and families.
Steve is married with three grown children and lives in Easton, PA.