AFC/M23 Recaptures Buhimba Center After Heavy Fighting in Walikale
The AFC/M23 coalition has regained control of Buhimba center, located in Waloa Yungu groupement in Walikale territory, following intense clashes with the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) and allied Wazalendo fighters on March 1, 2026.
Local sources report that AFC/M23 launched its offensive from positions in Kilongo, in Osso Banyungu groupement of neighboring Masisi territory. After hours of heavy fighting in and around Buhimba, FARDC and Wazalendo forces reportedly withdrew toward Ngenge in the western direction.
The renewed violence triggered a wave of displacement, with many residents of Buhimba fleeing as the fighting escalated. Residents in Ngenge and Kangati have expressed fear that the clashes could spread to their areas, prompting some to seek refuge in nearby forests while others have headed toward Kimua in search of safety.
The escalation comes amid heightened tensions following the killing of AFC/M23 military spokesperson Lt. Col. Willy Ngoma near Rubaya center in Masisi during the early hours of February 24, 2026. Since then, AFC/M23 has stepped up its offensives, recapturing several positions around Rubaya that it had previously lost.
AFC/M23 has accused the Congolese government of violating a ceasefire agreement signed in Qatar, arguing that Kinshasa’s actions prompted its return to active combat operations. The Congolese government has not publicly confirmed these claims but continues to describe its military campaign as necessary to restore state authority in the region.
Meanwhile, on March 1, Bangoka Airport in Kisangani was targeted in a separate drone incident involving four unmanned aerial vehicles. Government authorities stated that the drones were intercepted before causing damage. Reports indicate that AFC/M23 may have been responsible for the attack, similar to a previous incident last month.
Bangoka Airport primarily serves civilian aviation but also hosts a section used by the Congolese military. Its runway is reportedly used by combat aircraft and drones conducting operations against AFC/M23 positions in North and South Kivu provinces.
