Kalehe Fighting Resumes With Civilian Deaths After Brief Lull

Kalehe, South Kivu, August 14, 2026 - Fighting has resumed in the Kalehe territory of South Kivu, resulting in multiple civilian casualties and renewed displacement after a brief period of relative calm. On August 8, three civilians, including a woman and two children, were killed in Bundje Ziralo due to shelling attributed to the RDF/AFC-M23 forces, according to FARDC Lieutenant Reagan Mbuyi. The situation escalated on August 11, when heavy artillery fire was reported from various locations including Chambombo and Lumbishi, leading to further civilian deaths and injuries as clashes intensified between FARDC and AFC forces.

The violence continued to escalate with an offensive launched by AFC on August 12, targeting areas around Katale and Mpanama. FARDC reported holding their positions despite the assault, but the conflict has already claimed the lives of three more civilians, including a woman and two children. The FARDC has cited violations of ceasefire agreements by AFC, particularly in the Kabulungu Kabare region. On August 14, bombardments in Chambombo and Lumbishi resulted in the deaths of five civilians and left four FARDC soldiers wounded, prompting the military to remain on high alert amid a precarious calm in the region. The ongoing hostilities have raised concerns about the humanitarian situation, with many civilians displaced and in urgent need of assistance.