Willy Ngoma, M23 Spokesperson, Killed in Drone Strike
Published: 25 Feb 2026 | By Nancy Odindo
Willy Ngoma, the military spokesperson for the M23 rebel group, was killed in a drone strike in North Kivu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The attack occurred near Rubaya at around 3 a.m. on Tuesday, February 24, according to rebel officials and diplomatic sources.
M23 confirmed Ngoma’s death in a statement, describing it as a “tragic loss” and accusing the Congolese government of violating recent peace commitments. The group urged both national and international actors to hold Kinshasa accountable for disregarding the Doha Framework Agreement, which had been brokered with support from Qatar, the US, and the African Union.
Renewed Fighting Despite Ceasefire
The strike comes amid escalating clashes in North Kivu since February 22, forcing hundreds of families to flee. Despite ceasefire deals signed in Doha, violence has intensified, highlighting the fragility of peace efforts in the region.
Strategic Importance of Rubaya
Rubaya, a mining town, remains a critical financial hub for M23. The Congolese government recently listed it among strategic mining sites offered to the US under a minerals cooperation framework. M23, reportedly backed by Rwanda, controls significant territory in North and South Kivu, including Goma and Bukavu, captured during offensives in 2025.
Regional Peace Efforts
Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi had earlier pledged to uphold peace following a US-brokered deal in Washington. Kagame publicly praised President Donald Trump for his role in mediating the decades-long conflict.
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