FARDC Retakes Strategic Villages in Fizi and Mwenga

Kinshasa, March 8, 2026 - FIZI/MWENGA March 2, 2026 - The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), supported by the Wazalendo and elements of the Burundian army, have recaptured more than five villages in the Fizi and Mwenga territories of South Kivu following operations against the Twirweneho militia, an ally of the AFC/M23 rebels.

Local sources report that clashes intensified since Sunday, March 1, culminating in the retaking of Mikenge, a town held by rebel forces since March 2025, along with other strategic villages including Kakenge, Bilalombili, Bidegu 1, Madegu, and parts of Kalinga.

According to Pacifique Kararuka, president of the New Congolese Civil Society in Kipupu, “It was on Sunday that the FARDC, supported by the Wazalendo, recaptured Mikenge and other areas. The operations are being led from Kakobanya.”

The army reports that the counteroffensive resulted in significant rebel losses: several were killed, five captured, 17 surrendered, and 11 bodies were recovered, including a brigade commander of the AFC/M23 and a logistics officer of the Twirweneho militia with their escorts. Military equipment, including anti-drone lasers, was also recovered.

These operations have caused displacement, with some residents fleeing to Uvira for safety. Lieutenant Reagan Mbuyi Kalonji, the army spokesperson, stressed that the counterattack aims to neutralize AFC/M23 influence in the area and restore government control over strategic towns and villages.

Fighting in this region remains ongoing, as clashes continue between the Twirweneho-Red Tabara-FNL coalition allied with AFC/M23 and FARDC forces supported by Wazalendo and Burundian troops.