Heavy Clashes Between AFC/M23 and Wazalendo in Malemo

Masisi March 14, 2026 - Intense fighting broke out early Saturday in Malemo, a village in the Bashali Mokoto area of Masisi Territory, pitting AFC/M23 rebels against Wazalendo fighters. According to local sources, the clashes began around 5:00 a.m. following an offensive launched by Wazalendo forces on rebel-held positions along the Kalembe-Mpety axis. Since then, heavy and light weapons fire has been reported, with loud explosions echoing across the surrounding area. The violence has triggered panic among civilians in nearby villages, many of whom have remained confined to their homes amid fears of further escalation. These clashes come just 24 hours after similar fighting in Kashuga, located in the same Bashali Mokoto area, where Wazalendo forces also attacked AFC/M23 positions. The renewed offensives suggest mounting pressure on rebel strongholds in this part of Masisi. As of midday Saturday, the situation remained highly volatile, with no confirmed casualty figures. Local sources in nearby Kalembe reported continued tension and uncertainty as fighting persisted.