The war has just begun” said Maj. Gen. Makenga
The Commander-in-Chief of the fighters of the AFC/M23 coalition opposing the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Major General Sultani Makenga, has informed members of the coalition that the war to liberate the country has only just begun.
Maj. Gen. Makenga delivered this message during an end-of-year meeting that brought together AFC/M23 members and senior leaders of the coalition in the city of Goma on December 29, 2025.
He stated:
“The war is still ongoing. I ask those who think the war is over to understand that it is not over. The war has just begun. Everyone, wherever they are, should consider themselves at war. Whether you are in an office or anywhere else, consider your office as a trench you are in.
To liberate the people, sacrifice is required. Commitment comes before everything.”
Maj. Gen. Makenga told AFC/M23 members that for the coalition to liberate the country, they must remain firm in their objectives, focus on the future rather than being distracted, and explain to Congolese citizens the reasons behind their struggle.
He added:
“I ask everyone, wherever they are, all members, to educate the population so that they understand why change is necessary.”
AFC/M23 fighters currently control large areas in the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu, including major cities such as Goma and Bukavu.
The overall leader of AFC/M23, Corneille Nangaa, stated that all Congolese people whether in Matadi, Lubumbashi, Kinshasa, Mbandaka, Kananga, Kisangani, or elsewhere,need change, and that the coalition represents their hope.
Nangaa explained that AFC/M23 is fighting for unity among all Congolese people, peace, and security, and that these are also needed by those living abroad and in areas not yet under the coalition’s control.
