New Clashes Between AFC/M23 and Wazalendo in Bukumbirwa (Walikale)

Bukumbirwa February 3, 2026 - Violent clashes erupted early Tuesday morning, February 3, between AFC/M23 rebels and Wazalendo from the NDC-Rénové group in Bukumbirwa, located in the Ikobo area of Walikale territory, North Kivu. The Wazalendo launched an attack on AFC/M23 positions around 4:00 a.m., causing widespread panic among residents. The sounds of heavy and light weapons fire continued for several hours, forcing locals to remain indoors. After approximately three hours of fighting, the Wazalendo retreated into the bush, leaving Bukumbirwa under rebel control. The toll from these clashes is not yet known. Socio-economic activities have tentatively resumed, according to local sources. Several witnesses report a strengthening of AFC/M23 positions in Bukumbirwa and Rusamambu, with reinforcements from Buleusa reportedly arriving in these towns on Tuesday morning.