Heavy Clashes Between AFC/M23 Rebels and FARDC with Wazalendo Support

WALIKALE February 28, 2026 - Intense fighting erupted on Saturday, February 28, between AFC/M23 rebels and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), supported by Wazalendo militias, in Kibati, Luberike area, Walikale territory, North Kivu. Local security and administrative sources reported that government forces launched an offensive to reclaim the town, which has been under rebel control for nearly a year. Heavy and light weapons fire were heard across the combat zone. Movement along the Mungazi-Kashebere road has been suspended since the morning, leaving travelers and taxi drivers stranded-those heading from Walikale to Goma are halted in Mungazi, while travelers from Goma to Walikale are waiting in Kashebere. The clashes come amid a tense security environment, with escalating hostilities in neighboring Masisi territory, despite a ceasefire agreement mediated by Angola on February 18, 2026.