Wazalendo Retake Kateku Village After Clashes With AFC/M23 in North Kivu

WALIKALE, North Kivu March 27, 2026 - The village of Kateku, in the Iremya area of the Ikobo group, was recaptured on March 26 by Wazalendo fighters following clashes with AFC/M23 elements, according to local administrative and community sources. The fighting reportedly broke out after AFC/M23 fighters had occupied the area. The confrontation lasted around two hours before the armed group withdrew, allowing Wazalendo forces to regain control of the village. Local sources indicate that at least one combatant from AFC/M23 was killed during the clashes. Following the setback, the group reportedly retreated toward Buleusa, a major locality in the Ikobo area. The renewed fighting triggered fresh civilian displacement, with residents fleeing toward Buleusa and others moving further into neighboring Lubero territory in search of safety. Traditional leaders in the area have confirmed the change of control, while warning that the security situation in this part of Walikale remains highly unstable, marked by recurring clashes and shifting control between armed groups.