Heavy Clashes Erupt Between AFC/M23 and Wazalendo in Masisi’s Osso Banyungu Sector

MASISI, North Kivu March 29, 2026 - Intense fighting broke out on Sunday in the Osso Banyungu sector of Masisi territory, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, pitting AFC/M23 fighters against Wazalendo self-defense groups, according to local sources. The clashes reportedly began around 7:00 a.m., when AFC/M23 elements launched coordinated assaults targeting Wazalendo positions near Kazinga and Ngululu. Both localities had been under Wazalendo control in recent weeks and are now at the center of renewed fighting as each side attempts to consolidate or reclaim territory. Residents reported sustained exchanges of heavy and light weapons fire throughout the day, with gunfire audible across multiple surrounding villages. The violence also affected areas bordering Walikale territory, deepening panic among civilian populations. The renewed hostilities come amid a volatile security landscape in North Kivu, where reported AFC/M23 withdrawals from parts of Walikale, Lubero, and Rutshuru contrast with continued fighting in Masisi, where no signs of de-escalation have been observed. Civilians remain exposed to the violence, with many expressing fear of further escalation as armed groups continue to contest control of strategic rural areas in the province.