FARDC Pays Tribute to Colonel Mamadou Ndala Twelve Years After His Assassination

Kinshasa, January 3, 2026 - The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) on Friday paid tribute to Colonel Mamadou Ndala, marking twelve years since his assassination in an ambush on his convoy while he was traveling to Eringeti, in North Kivu. On this day of remembrance, the Congolese army reaffirmed its determination to pursue the struggle for which Mamadou Ndala gave his life: the defense of a united, sovereign, and peaceful Democratic Republic of the Congo. “Honor and glory to General Mamadou Ndala. The grateful nation will never forget you. Long live the FARDC, long live the Democratic Republic of Congo!” the army declared in an official message. At the time of his death, Colonel Mamadou Ndala was leading military operations against the Ugandan Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels and other armed groups operating in the Beni region. Widely regarded as a national hero, Mamadou Ndala remains an emblematic figure of courage, loyalty, and supreme sacrifice in the defense of the homeland. A respected commander and exceptional officer, he distinguished himself through his unwavering commitment to the fight for peace, security, and the territorial integrity of the DRC. According to the FARDC, his leadership on the ground, his close connection with the troops, and his determination in the face of the enemy have left a lasting mark on the history of the Congolese army. His legacy, the military emphasized, remains alive in the hearts of Congolese soldiers and the entire nation. The commemoration of the 12th anniversary of Colonel Mamadou Ndala’s assassination comes at a time when the FARDC is engaged in ongoing confrontations with AFC/M23 rebels, reportedly supported by the Rwandan army, in the eastern part of the country.