Many villages and towns in South Kivu have been destabilized for weeks by ongoing clashes between the AFC/M23 rebels and the Wazalendo rebel group aligned with the FARDC.
The fighting intensified on Wednesday, June 18, across the territories of Kabare, Kalehe, and Walungu.
In Walungu, both sides engaged in combat starting Tuesday, June 17, around Nyangezi and adjacent areas, according to Actualité.cd.
Numerous eyewitnesses reported hearing heavy and light weapons fire continuing into the early hours of Wednesday, June 18.
The same was reported in Lurhala, also in Walungu territory. A source from the area told media:
“In Lurhala and surrounding zones there were battles, but we don’t know if anyone died.”
Fierce fighting occurred in Kabare territory, particularly in Cirunga, Mumosho, and Katana. For instance, combat broke out in Cirunga at around 11 a.m. on Wednesday.
A resident of Cirunga said:
“Wazalendo tried to push out AFC/M23 fighters; two people were killed.”
Civil society observers added:
“Near Mumosho and Katana there is great fear, and renewed tensions reported near Kigabi.”
Clashes in Mumosho reportedly spread toward Nyantende, with gunshots heard even in Panzi, raising alarm.
This surge in violence is undermining previously announced ceasefire agreements, which were intended to ease peaceful access across DRC. The government in Kinshasa and AFC/M23 remain in Doha peace talks in Qatar.
