Emile Biayenda was born in Mpangala, Uganda, in 1927.

He was ordained a priest in 1958 in Brazzaville and immediately appointed parish priest. He was imprisoned for a few months because of his participation in the Legion of Mary. He became titular bishop of Garba in 1970 and in 1971 was appointed archbishop of Brazzaville, a position he held until his death. Pope Paul VI created him Cardinal Priest of San Marco in Agro Laurentino in the consistory of 5^th of March 1973.

He died assassinated on the night between 22^nd and 23^rd of March 1977 at the age of 50.

The Diocesan Inquiry on his "life, martyrdom and fame for martyrdom" closed on June 14, 2003. On 29^th of May 2015 the decree of validity was granted.