Commando Kansimba Leopard Patch – Congo Mercenary Era (3.5 x 3.5 inches)
Price range: $17.00 through $19.00
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This embroidered patch reproduces the “Commando Kansimba” insignia associated with European-led mercenary formations active in the Congo during the 1960s. The design features a leaping leopard, a long-standing symbol of shock troops and jungle warfare in Central Africa, rendered in mid-action across a black field. Beneath the leopard is a red outline of Katanga with a yellow Katanga cross (handa) at its center, while Lake Tanganyika is depicted in blue along the eastern edge. The word “COMMANDO” arches across the top, with “KANSIMBA” embroidered along the bottom.
This insignia is historically linked to mercenary units operating in Katanga and eastern Congo during the Simba Rebellion period, most notably formations connected to Jean Schramme and the so-called Leopard / 10 Commando lineage. Patches of this type were typically privately commissioned, locally produced, and worn unofficially, resulting in numerous period variations rather than a single standardized issue.
Specifications
Size: 3.5 x 3.5 inches
Construction: Embroidered
Border: Satin border
Backing options: Hook and loop, iron on, or sew on (no backing)
Shape: Square
Era represented: Congo Crisis / Simba Rebellion (1960s)
Historical Context
“Commando Kansimba” refers to a mercenary commando element active in Katanga and eastern Congo during the mid-1960s, a period marked by the Simba Rebellion and successive counter-insurgency operations. Leopard symbolism was widely adopted by mercenary and auxiliary units for its association with aggression, mobility, and dominance in jungle terrain. The Katanga cross shown within the map reflects the region’s distinct identity following the Katanga secession and its lasting influence on unit symbolism used by foreign fighters and allied local forces. Patches like this were never mass-issued military insignia but instead served as informal identifiers within tight-knit commando units.
Disclaimer
This item is a non-authentic reproduction intended for historical and educational purposes, as well as for display in private collections. It is not meant to promote any political stance or ideology.
| Style |
Iron on ,Velcro ,Sew on (no backing) |
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1 review for Commando Kansimba Leopard Patch – Congo Mercenary Era (3.5 x 3.5 inches)
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Verified owner Daniel (verified owner) –
I’m super happy with the way this patch turned out. It’s highly detailed and such a cool design.