AFC/M23 Advances Toward Uvira as Fighting Intensifies in South Kivu

South Kivu, DRC - The AFC/M23 coalition continues to expand its territorial control in South Kivu province, advancing steadily toward the strategic city of Uvira, a key administrative hub of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

On December 8, 2025, AFC/M23 fighters seized several positions in Uvira Territory, including the centers of Nyakabere and Sange, following clashes with DRC government forces. These gains come after earlier captures of Bwegera, Luberizi, Luvungi, Rurambo, and Katogota, which fell as the group advanced from Kamanyola, an area it has controlled for the past 10 months.

The coalition is moving southward along the RN5 national road, pushing toward Uvira town, the seat of the South Kivu provincial administration appointed by Kinshasa. Sange, now at the center of the fighting, lies approximately 30 kilometers from Uvira.

To reach the city, AFC/M23 must still secure other strategic localities, including Runingo and Kiliba, also located within Uvira Territory, marking another 30-kilometer stretch along the route.

Fighting earlier last week was marked by heavy shelling around Kamanyola, slowing the advance. However, the situation has since shifted, with AFC/M23 fighters moving at a rapid pace, dramatically altering the battlefield dynamics.

At the same time, the DRC army (FARDC) has become embroiled in clashes with Wazalendo militias, groups it has often fought alongside. The confrontations stem from growing mistrust and battlefield failures, making it increasingly difficult to determine command authority and coordination among pro-government forces.

On December 7, 2025, Sange was under the control of a pro-government coalition backed by the DRC, including Wazalendo fighters. As FARDC units attempted to withdraw toward Uvira, they were reportedly blocked by Wazalendo groups, who demanded that government troops surrender their weapons.

When FARDC refused, heavy fighting erupted, drawing in Burundian forces. The clashes left at least 36 people dead, including civilians and soldiers, and more than 20 others injured, according to local sources.

Wazalendo militias, known for defying orders from the DRC military command, have since accused government forces of colluding with AFC/M23, questioning how the group has been able to seize territory so quickly.

The accusations reflect deepening fractures within the pro-government camp, further complicating efforts to halt the AFC/M23 advance and raising concerns over security and civilian protection as fighting edges closer to Uvira city.