In the wake of ongoing instability in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Goma has become a focal point of political change, particularly with the rise of the March 23 Movement (M23) and the appointment of Manzi Willy Ngarambe as the city’s new deputy leader. A former refugee who spent years in exile, Manzi’s return to his homeland has sparked both hope and controversy. In this exclusive interview with Mutesi Scovia of Mama Urwagasabo, Manzi shares his personal journey from a refugee camp to a leadership role in Goma, outlining his vision for a peaceful, developed, and self-sustaining future for his people. From rebuilding infrastructure to confronting genocidal forces and repatriating refugees, Manzi offers a candid perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing his administration.
This interview was transcribed from a video-recorded conversation between Manzi Willy Ngarambe and Mutesi Scovia of Mama Urwagasabo.
Mutesi Scovia: You were born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo but spent most of your life in exile. Can you introduce yourself to those who may not be familiar with your background?
Manzi Willy Ngarambe: My name is Manzi Willy Ngarambe. Ngarambe is my father’s name. I was born in Numbi, but I fled the country at eight years old due to war. My family sought refuge in Rwanda in 1994, but life there was far from easy. We lived in refugee camps, but in Nkamira and Mudende, we were attacked by interahamwe militias. Many refugees were massacred, forcing us to flee again, this time to Byumba. Later, in 2005, I left Rwanda, stayed briefly in Uganda, and eventually moved to Canada, where I built a new life. I did not plan to stay in exile forever. I always knew that one day, I would return home.
Mutesi Scovia: You lived in Canada for many years. How did you feel when you were asked to return and take on a leadership role in Goma?
Manzi Willy Ngarambe: It was a great privilege. For years, I had supported the struggle of M23, even from exile. I always wanted to return and contribute to rebuilding our nation. In Canada, I had everything—a good house, financial stability, and a comfortable life—but something was missing. I lacked a homeland. No matter how well you live abroad, there is an emptiness that comes with being a refugee. Life in exile is also unpredictable. Let me give you an example: In the United States, people live legally for years, but suddenly, the laws change. Some immigrants lose their status overnight. In exile, you are always at the mercy of a system that does not truly consider you its own. My mother lived in a refugee camp for years, my father was murdered in the war, and my family was scattered. That pain never left me. That is why I never hesitated when the opportunity came to return to Goma. This is my home.
Mutesi Scovia: Some critics argue that your leadership is illegitimate because it is not recognized by Kinshasa. What is your response?
Manzi Willy Ngarambe: I don’t understand how a leader can exist without power. We do not report to Kinshasa because we are building a new administration here in Goma. Goma is a major city, possibly even larger than Kigali. Yet, since 1960, when Congo gained independence, the central government has failed to develop this city. There is no reliable infrastructure, no adequate security, and no economic growth. We are here to change that. Our priorities are security, governance, and economic stability. Kinshasa abandoned this region a long time ago. Now, we are taking responsibility for ourselves.
Mutesi Scovia: M23 has been in control of this region for some time, but many Congolese citizens simply want peace. Groups like FDLR still promote genocidal ideology. What will your administration do about this?
Manzi Willy Ngarambe: First, we need clear and visionary leadership. Other countries have successfully overcome deep ethnic divisions—take Rwanda, for example. If Rwanda managed to reconcile after the Genocide against the Tutsi, we can learn from their approach and apply similar strategies here. We must establish programs that reshape people’s mindsets, encourage coexistence, and promote conflict resolution. Additionally, we need a strong intelligence network to identify and arrest criminals while ensuring that innocent refugees return home safely. Let me be clear: As long as I am here, FDLR will never have a place in Goma. This city has suffered enough. There is no room for genocidal militias or forces that divide our people.
Mutesi Scovia: Currently, Goma has no police force—only soldiers. How do you plan to maintain law and order?
Manzi Willy Ngarambe: We must work with the resources we have. Right now, our military will provide security. However, soldiers can be trained to become police officers. With the right training, they can transition into law enforcement roles. Many post-war countries have followed this model successfully. We need stability first, then we can fully establish a civilian police force. But for now, we will use the forces we have to ensure security and order.
Mutesi Scovia: Some believe your leadership is temporary and that M23 will eventually leave. What do you say to that?
Manzi Willy Ngarambe: I understand the skepticism. People have seen leaders come and go. But this time, we are here to stay. That is why we are prioritizing education, healthcare, and infrastructure. For instance, I cannot visit my own village because there are no roads. That must change. If we build proper infrastructure and create opportunities, people will see that this leadership is serious about development. We are not just here for today; we are here to transform this region for the future.
Mutesi Scovia: Many Congolese still live as refugees. What will convince them to return?
Manzi Willy Ngarambe: They must understand that peace is at home, not in exile. We need to resettle refugees in their original communities, provide land for those who have none, and introduce economic policies that promote self-sufficiency. The key to stability is ensuring that people have a place to live, work, and raise their families. Happiness is not about wealth. A person can own just two goats, but if they live in peace, they are better off than someone struggling in Canada or the United States. Many of our people in the diaspora dream of returning home, but they need assurance that they will be safe. That is our responsibility. We will not only bring refugees back, but we will ensure that they have the means to rebuild their lives. This is not an experiment. This is the beginning of real change for our people. We are not just here to govern; we are here to create a future for all Congolese.
