Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo – The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have confirmed the death of Colonel Alexis Rugabisha, commander of the 12th Brigade, during intense fighting against the M23 rebels. The announcement was made in an official press release on February 2, 2025, detailing that Colonel Rugabisha succumbed to his injuries on February 1 near Mukwiza in Kalehe territory, South Kivu.
Colonel Rugabisha was leading his troops on the Southern Front, successfully repelling enemy forces from Nyabibwe to the outskirts of Minova before being injured. Major General Sylvain Ekenge Bomusa Efomi, spokesperson for the FARDC General Staff, praised Rugabisha’s bravery and commitment to defending his homeland against Rwandan aggressions.
His death underscores the escalating conflict in eastern DRC, where M23 forces are advancing toward strategic towns, raising concerns about regional stability. The colonel’s legacy is expected to inspire future generations of Congolese soldiers.