Heavy Fighting in South Kivu: AFC/M23 Forces Push Back DRC and Wazalendo Troops

Kinshasa, December 10, 2025 - The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) government forces and allied Wazalendo troops suffered a setback in the battle for control in South Kivu province, withdrawing from several areas after days of intense fighting with AFC/M23 forces. Key flashpoints included Katogota, Luvungi, Lubarika in Uvira territory, and Kaziba in Walungu.

According to reports, DRC, Burundian, and Wazalendo forces launched heavy shelling on Kamanyola and Kaziba, while Wazalendo troops fired indiscriminately in Mudaka center from the Kajeje mountains, resulting in two civilian deaths and injuries to three students, disrupting local businesses and closing main roads.

AFC/M23 fighters quickly responded, reclaiming Mudaka center, reopening the roads, and counterattacking government positions in Kaziba, including Butuzi, Chemba, Nabumbu, and Mwera. Despite the use of BM-Grad rockets, Sukhoi-25 aircraft, and combat drones, DRC forces failed to retake Kamanyola, leaving civilians in panic. Hundreds reportedly fled to Rwanda and other parts of the DRC to escape the violence.

AFC/M23 spokesman Lawrence Kanyuka condemned attacks on civilians, reporting deaths and injuries, including students, during assaults on schools. The ongoing clashes underscore the fragile security situation in South Kivu and the challenges faced by local populations.