Heavy Clashes Erupt Between AFC/M23 and Wazalendo in Shoa

Shoa, Masisi, North Kivu April 1, 2026 - Violent fighting broke out early Wednesday, April 1, in Shoa, located in the Osso Banyungu sector of Masisi Territory in North Kivu Province, as AFC/M23 fighters engaged Wazalendo forces in a renewed confrontation over control of the area. Local sources reported sustained exchanges of heavy and light weapons fire from the early hours of the morning, indicating intense and ongoing clashes that left the situation highly unstable and unclear throughout the day. The offensive is believed to have been launched by AFC/M23 fighters attempting to retake a strategic position in Shoa, as part of broader efforts to expand their influence across Masisi Territory, a region that has remained highly volatile for months. No confirmed information is yet available regarding casualties or material damage. However, the renewed fighting has heightened fears among civilians of further displacement in an area already severely affected by repeated cycles of armed conflict.