36 Killed in FARDC-Wazalendo Clashes in Uvira

Uvira, December 12, 2025 - At least 36 people were killed and 19 others injured following violent clashes between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and Wazalendo factions in Uvira territory, eastern DRC, according to local sources.

The fighting erupted in the Sange area, which has been under the control of Congolese, Burundian, and Wazalendo forces for several days. These forces are jointly engaged in operations against the AFC/M23 coalition, which has intensified military pressure across South Kivu province.

The province has witnessed heavy fighting in recent days, with government forces suffering setbacks and losing control of several strategic localities, including Katogota, Rurambo, Luvungi, Luberizi, and Bwegera, sources in South Kivu reported.

According to the same sources, on December 7, 2025, FARDC troops retreating from the frontlines arrived in Sange, seeking to regroup and move with their weapons and equipment toward the city of Uvira. However, the Wazalendo fighters reportedly opposed this move.

The Wazalendo demanded that the FARDC forces withdraw to Uvira without their arms and ammunition, arguing that the weapons should be used locally in the fight against the AFC/M23. The disagreement quickly escalated into armed confrontations between the two sides.

During the clashes, an explosive device was reportedly detonated, killing 36 people, including civilians and soldiers, and leaving 19 others wounded.

The Burundian news outlet SOS Médias reported that seven Burundian soldiers were among those killed in the fighting.

The incident underscores the growing fragmentation among allied forces in eastern DRC, further complicating efforts to stabilize the conflict-hit South Kivu region.