Leading with Integrity and Faith: Dr. David Kombe’s Practical Wisdom for Rhema Alumni

On Thursday, 24 July 2025 during a RAAZ Mental Wellness Webinar, Dr. David Kombe, Chairman and CEO of Mulundu Holdings, shared powerful and time-tested lessons on leadership, resilience, and faith. From his over 34 years of experience as an entreprenuer, he offered practical applications for both the business world and personal life. Here are five standout insights:

1. Integrity over short-term gains

Dr. Kombe emphasized that no amount of financial gain is worth sacrificing your integrity. He recalled the sound advice, “A good name is better than money,” echoing the wisdom of Proverbs 22:1:

A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.

Leaders must live and lead transparently, setting a standard of honesty that inspires and protects those who depend on them.

2. Separate yourself from the organization

According to Dr. Kombe, it is crucial to distinguish your personal identity from the business or ministry you lead. This separation empowers leaders to make clear-headed, less emotional decisions in times of pressure. Jesus, too, modeled healthy boundaries, often withdrawing from crowds to refocus (Luke 5:16). By guarding your emotional well-being, you lead with greater wisdom for those in your care.

3. Faith and hope in economic hardship

Even amid economic uncertainty, Dr. Kombe testified to trusting God for provision and new opportunities. His perspective aligns with Scriptures such as Psalm 37:25—

I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread.

He reminded participants that faith is not a shield from trouble, but a guarantee of God’s sustaining presence and ultimate breakthrough.

4. Plan wisely for difficult seasons

Dr. Kombe advised: build reserves when times are good, and cultivate reliable relationships with key clients. Just as Joseph stored up during Egypt’s years of plenty (Genesis 41:47-49), Christian leaders are called to stewardship—saving and preparing to withstand life’s inevitable “droughts.”

5. Leadership requires courage and resilience

The business journey, Dr. Kombe explained, is filled with criticism, risk, and temptation. He encouraged leaders to develop “thick skin,” maintain a long-term perspective, and keep decisions grounded in faith and ethics. Galatians 6:9 emboldens us:

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Dr. Kombe recounted how, even after business setbacks, his hope and vision for the future remain anchored in God.

Reflection questions for leaders

Let Dr. Kombe’s example inspire you to lead with character and faith.

• Is my reputation marked more by integrity than by financial or worldly achievement?
• How do I safeguard my emotional well-being while stewarding my organization or ministry?
• In what ways am I trusting God—and planning practically—through the ups and downs of my leadership journey?