AFC/M23 Seizes Several Localities in Kalehe After Clashes, Thousands Displaced

Bukavu, April 7, 2026 - Heavy fighting between AFC/M23 rebels and local Wazalendo fighters in Kalehe territory has led to the capture of multiple localities and triggered large-scale civilian displacement, amid a rapidly deteriorating security situation. Clashes erupted on April 6 in the Ziralo area of Buhavu chiefdom, with intense confrontations reported in villages including Kusisa and Nyalugusha, as well as along key axes such as Braza, Lulamba, and Bushege. Additional fighting was recorded along the Kaziba-Katale-Kafufula-Katanga corridor, notably in Bundje and Bushugulu. On the ground, AFC/M23 elements faced off against Wazalendo fighters drawn from several local armed groups, including factions led by Kirikicho Mirimba Mwanamayi, Grevisse Nsimparingira, and Haguma Kanyengwenye. As the day progressed, the balance of power shifted in favor of the rebels. By late afternoon, multiple areas-including Kaziba, Katale, Kafufula, Katanga, Mpanama, Braza, Bushege, and Lulamba-had fallen under AFC/M23 control, according to local sources. The escalation has forced thousands of civilians to flee their homes. Residents from the affected localities, as well as nearby areas such as Kashebere, Tushunguti, Ruchuro, Kirambo, and Bunyangungu, have sought refuge in safer zones, particularly in Mianda in the Bulembwe area. Humanitarian conditions are rapidly worsening, with many displaced families spending the night outdoors without shelter, food, or basic assistance. Women, children, and vulnerable individuals are among the most affected. Reports also indicate that AFC/M23 fighters continue to advance toward Tushunguti, the main center of the Ziralo group, located roughly seven kilometers from the initial combat zones, raising fears of further escalation in the coming days.