Fighting resumes between FARDC coalition and AFC/M23 in South Kivu
Fresh fighting has erupted in South Kivu after clashes between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), their Wazalendo militia allies, Burundian forces and the AFC/M23 rebel group reignited on December 2, 2025.
The latest hostilities broke out early on December 3 in the areas of Lubarika and Katogota in Uvira Territory, and in Kaziba in Walungu Territory, according to local sources. Residents reported intense exchanges of gunfire as both sides battled for control.
Information from South Kivu indicates that large numbers of civilians in Katogota have begun fleeing toward Kamanyola, a trading center that has been under AFC/M23 control for almost 10 months. Due to heavy gunfire around Katogota, some residents in Kamanyola — including those in Kambara and Rugenge — have also fled further inland for safety.
On December 2, widespread clashes were reported across several parts of South Kivu, including Katogota, Luvungi and Lubarika in Uvira, Kaziba in Walungu, and along the Kasita–Mwenga road corridor.
AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka accused the Congolese army coalition of initiating the violence, claiming FARDC forces fired shells into Kamanyola, killing three civilians and injuring five others.
In Kaziba, four members of the same family were reportedly killed in Burherere, a locality in the Mucingwa groupement, while six others were killed in the Muhumba groupement, according to local authorities.
FARDC spokesperson Maj. Gen. Sylvain Ekenge issued a counter-statement, accusing AFC/M23 of violating the Doha ceasefire agreement by attacking army positions in Luvungi, Lubarika and Katogota.
