AFC/M23 Announces Leadership Changes in Goma Administration

Goma, April 9, 2026 - The AFC/M23 coalition has announced a reshuffle of local leadership in the eastern city of Goma, appointing new administrative officials as it consolidates its control over the area. According to an official statement, Bahati Musanga Erasto, governor of North Kivu appointed by the coalition, confirmed the nomination of Kasuba Ngabo Désiré as mayor of Goma, replacing Julien Katembo Ndalieni, who has been reassigned as mayor of the Lubero territory. Kasuba previously served as deputy mayor of the city. In the same announcement, Nshimiyimana Juvénal, formerly responsible for mobilization and recruitment within the AFC/M23, was appointed deputy mayor of Goma. Additional appointments include Katembo Isevisya as deputy mayor, and Radjabu Kwizera Elie as deputy mayor of Karisimbi commune. The AFC/M23 coalition, which has been engaged in conflict with the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, took control of Goma on January 27, 2025. Since then, it has established parallel administrative structures aimed at managing security, public services, and infrastructure projects in the city. The latest appointments are presented by the group as part of efforts to strengthen governance and maintain order in areas under its control.