Walikale Front Flips Between AFC/M23 and Wazalendo From Buleusa to Kazuba

Walikale, North Kivu, August 13, 2026 - The security situation in Walikale has become increasingly volatile as clashes between the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) and Wazalendo forces continue to escalate. Following a series of confrontations, the town of Buleusa experienced significant looting on the night of August 2-3, attributed to Wazalendo fighters after clashes with AFC forces. Although no fatalities were reported, the looting targeted pharmacies, shops, and homes, prompting AFC forces to assert control over the town in a self-defense operation.

On August 6, AFC fighters launched an offensive from Ihula against Wazalendo positions at Rushihe Banamulindwa Kisimba, leading to a brief period of precarious calm on August 7, despite Wazalendo's claims of pushing AFC back to Ihula. The conflict continued to unfold with further skirmishes; on August 8, AFC forces engaged Wazalendo at Misambo Kisimba, where Wazalendo claimed to have maintained control, although casualty figures remain unverified. The fighting intensified again on August 10, when AFC from Ihula confronted CMC Wazalendo forces, prompting civilians to flee into the bush for safety.

The situation took a decisive turn on August 12, when Wazalendo launched an offensive around 16:00 at Kazuba Banansuka Kisimba, successfully dislodging AFC forces and reportedly burning their camps. While the exact number of casualties remains unverified, the ongoing clashes have left the region in a state of precarious calm as of August 13, with both sides preparing for potential further confrontations. The humanitarian implications of this conflict are significant, as civilians continue to bear the brunt of the violence, with many displaced and in need of assistance.