Intense clashes broke out early Wednesday morning in the Fizi territory of South Kivu Province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as government forces (FARDC) and allied Wazalendo militias engaged in fierce battles with rebels from the AFC-M23/Twirwaneho coalition.
Fighting is reportedly concentrated in the areas of Lugezi, Badinzi, and Sabuni, where the sound of heavy gunfire and explosions echoed throughout the day. Local sources confirmed that both sides are deploying heavy weaponry, including artillery, RPGs, and other military-grade equipment.
Civilians in the affected areas have fled their homes, seeking refuge in nearby forests and areas closer to the towns of Uvira and Baraka. Many residents spoke of a terrifying morning as the clashes intensified, raising alarms over the safety of non-combatants.
This latest escalation follows accusations that the M23 movement has been expanding its operations in eastern Congo, allegedly launching attacks on FARDC positions and capturing territories previously under Wazalendo control.
Wazalendo, a loose coalition of armed civilians formed to resist M23 and other rebel groups, has become an unofficial partner to the national army in the fight for eastern Congo’s stability. The FARDC insists it maintains the upper hand and continues to coordinate with these local defense groups in repelling the insurgents.
Meanwhile, human rights organizations are calling for an immediate ceasefire and the protection of civilians. There is growing concern for the safety of women and children caught in the crossfire, with warnings that the fighting could spill over into other parts of South and North Kivu.
The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) has also weighed in, urging all parties to resume dialogue and pursue a long-term solution to the ongoing insecurity in eastern Congo.
