Renewed Clashes in Masisi: AFC/M23 and Wazalendo Battle Amid Civilian Casualties

Masisi, North Kivu - 11 January 2026: Fighting has resumed in Masisi Territory between the AFC/M23 rebels and the Wazalendo coalition, aligned with the DRC government. According to local reports, clashes began at midnight in the Kazinga area, with residents hearing heavy and light weapons being fired. Sources say the Wazalendo forces are attempting to prevent AFC/M23 from expanding control over additional areas, including the first and second Nyamaboko groups. This flare-up follows a FARDC attack on 2 January 2026, during which six civilians were killed and 41 others injured in a populated area of Masisi. Both AFC/M23 and the United Nations peacekeeping mission (MONUSCO) condemned the January 2 attack. The renewed clashes highlight the ongoing instability in North Kivu, where armed confrontations continue to threaten civilians and hamper peace efforts in the region. Conclusion Between late 2025 and early 2026, Rwanda and the surrounding region are characterized by a dual focus on internal development and complex regional diplomacy. Internally, Rwanda is experiencing significant growth in private investment and infrastructure, exemplified by the inauguration of the 7 billion Frw GLADS Apartment and the expansion of the Karenge Waterworks to meet increasing demand for clean water. The government is also modernizing economic services through initiatives like the Rwanda Development Board’s One Stop Center website to further streamline investment. On the diplomatic and security front, the period is marked by several key developments: Regional Influence and Cooperation: Rwanda continues to be viewed as a model for peacebuilding, with nations like Sudan actively seeking its expertise for national reconstruction. Furthermore, Rwandan peacekeepers continue to receive international recognition for their professionalism in missions like MINUSCA in the Central African Republic. Ongoing DRC Tensions: Relations between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo remain strained. The DRC government faces internal and external criticism for its handling of security in the East, with ongoing conflicts involving the AFC/M23 coalition. While there are shifting efforts to restart mediation-moving between Qatari-led and Angolan-led frameworks-the path to a lasting peace remains uncertain due to deep-seated mistrust and conflicting negotiation strategies. Strategic Resource Management: Rwanda is proactively addressing future challenges, such as the need to expand its national fuel reserves to accommodate rising consumption driven by industrial growth and increased vehicle use. In summary, while Rwanda is successfully advancing its domestic economic and developmental agenda, it remains deeply involved in-and affected by-the persistent security challenges and diplomatic maneuvering in the broader Great Lakes Region. By Jeff Buleli