Security - 17 August 2026
FARDC And AFC/M23 Fighting Hits Kalehe Localities
Bukavu, August 17, 2026 - Fighting between the FARDC and AFC/M23 forces broke out in several localities of Kalehe territory in South Kivu, deepening civilian insecurity in a strategically sensitive part of eastern DRC.
Hostilities affected Katare, Tushunguti, Nyamugari and Kivoka from around 7 a.m., with bombardments intensifying around 10 a.m. Civil society representatives reported casualties, destroyed homes, and damage to schools and other infrastructure.
The clashes triggered new displacement as residents sought protection away from the fighting. A precarious calm was reported on August 18, while local populations continued to demand stronger protection.
The violence adds pressure on the state and humanitarian actors in South Kivu, where recurring clashes threaten service delivery, local commerce and confidence in stabilization efforts.
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