AFC/M23 Reinforces Positions in Mpety and Mindjendje, Tensions Rise Around Pinga

WALIKALE, North Kivu February 23, 2026 - The security situation remains tense in Walikale territory as AFC/M23 rebels reinforced their positions on Sunday, February 22, in the villages of Mpety and Mindjendje, located in the Banakindi area of the Kisimba group. Reports indicate that the reinforcements arrived from the Kitshanga-Kalembe axis, with several witnesses observing columns of heavily armed fighters moving through Kalembe before heading toward Mpety. The movements were also confirmed by security sources in Walikale, raising concerns about a possible military buildup in the area. Although the exact objective of the deployment remains unclear, local observers believe the repositioning could signal preparations for new offensives against the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and Wazalendo fighters, particularly around the strategic town of Pinga. The developments have heightened anxiety among local communities, which are already under pressure following recent clashes reported in several parts of Walikale territory. Local traditional authorities in the Kisimba group have denounced what they describe as a violation of the current ceasefire, calling on FARDC forces and Wazalendo fighters to remain highly vigilant in the face of the evolving security situation. Amid a regional context marked by persistent instability, civilians fear that the reinforcement of rebel positions could lead to a renewed escalation of violence, potentially triggering fresh waves of displacement and further worsening the humanitarian situation in this already fragile area of North Kivu.