Maj. Gen. Sultani Makenga reminded the 7,532 new AFC/M23 commandos that the coalition’s goal is to liberate the entire Democratic Republic of the Congo from what he described as poor governance and insecurity, a mission he said demands their full commitment.
The event took place in Tshanzu, Rutshuru Territory, North Kivu Province, on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
AFC/M23 stated that the training provided to these commandos was intensive and professionally designed, forming part of a solid strategy to strengthen the military capacity of the ARC.
The coalition explained that the objective is to rebuild effective state authority across the entire country. The training focused on discipline, coordination between units, and strict respect for command structures, which are considered key pillars of a well-prepared and effective military force.
AFC/M23 also noted that in areas under its control, its soldiers play a significant role in the daily lives of civilians by ensuring security and overseeing the proper functioning of activities in those regions.
Maj. Gen. Sultani Makenga, stated that the ARC continues to demonstrate strong discipline, and that the experience of its members contributes greatly to their ongoing operations.
In his address to the new commandos, Maj. Gen. Makenga reminded them that they had joined a force whose mission is to liberate the entire Democratic Republic of the Congo and its people, who he said continue to suffer under poor governance.
He said, “Our country is governed by incompetent people based in Kinshasa, who came to power without legitimacy. They are destroying the country, dismantling everything, and killing their own citizens. Our Congolese brothers and sisters have become refugees in foreign countries, while others are displaced within different parts of the country.”
He added that the current Congolese leadership must take responsibility for the consequences of its actions, saying, “They kill civilians, abuse the population, and destroy everything in their path.”
Gen. Makenga continued by stating that the ARC was formed to put an end to these abuses, emphasizing that they are using all available means and have already achieved significant progress.
He said, “They fought us with strong backing: they brought in Burundian forces, the FDLR, white mercenaries from different countries, and united all kinds of armed groups under what they called Wazalendo. ARC defeated all of them.”
Gen. Makenga told the newly graduated commandos that they must use the training and knowledge they received to contribute meaningfully to the struggle led by AFC/M23.
He said, “You must play your part in rebuilding the country. Our brothers and sisters who have lived as refugees for many years must return home and live-in peace.”
Maj.Gen Makenga concluded by stating that AFC/M23 aims to build a respected Democratic Republic of the Congo, both nationally and internationally, adding, “We must have a respected population, a strong army, and citizens who are treated with dignity.”
RADIOTV10
