AFC/M23 Recaptures Chugi, Katobo, and Kaniro Amid Growing Humanitarian Crisis

MASISI February 27, 2026 - The AFC/M23 rebels regained control of the villages of Chugi, Katobo, and Kaniro in the Bahunde chiefdom of Masisi territory, North Kivu, on the evening of Thursday, February 26, following intense clashes with Wazalendo forces. These villages, strategically located to control access to the mining town of Rubaya, had been seized by Wazalendo last Monday. After four days of occupation, the militia withdrew in the face of a reinforced counter-offensive by AFC/M23, according to local administrative and security sources. The recapture underscores the intensifying violence in Masisi, which has been a focal point of recurrent clashes between Wazalendo and AFC/M23 over the past week. Reports indicate troop movements and reinforcements on both sides as each seeks to consolidate territorial control. Residents reported heavy exchanges of fire and bombings, generating widespread fear among civilians. No official casualty or damage figures have been released. Humanitarian concerns are mounting as repeated displacement is forcing families to abandon homes, crops, and livelihoods. If hostilities continue or spread, the population may face new waves of displacement toward Rubaya, Nyabiondo, or other safer areas, further worsening an already fragile socio-economic situation in the territory.