Displaced Residents Return to Batakirwa Villages Despite Ongoing Security Risks

Walikale, July 8, 2026 - After spending more than two weeks hiding in the bush due to armed clashes, residents of several villages in the Batakirwa area of Walikale territory, North Kivu, have begun returning home despite continued security concerns. Since Monday, July 6, inhabitants of Iseya, Bubere, Buringa, Tusangwa, and Kilambo villages, located in the Bafuna group, have gradually resumed their return after fleeing fighting that erupted on June 18 between two rival factions of the Uhuru DRC armed group. The clashes, involving forces loyal to Désiré Kashira Mashite and Shimiray Mushunganya Zidane, forced hundreds of civilians to abandon their homes and seek refuge in forested areas, where many lived under extremely difficult conditions. Returning residents described severe humanitarian hardships during their displacement, including shortages of food, drinking water, medicine, and limited access to healthcare services. Vulnerable groups, particularly children, pregnant women, and elderly people, were among the most affected. Several returnees said they decided to go back despite the risks because conditions in the bush had become unbearable and returning home offered better opportunities to access farmland and basic resources. Local administrative authorities confirmed that the difficult living conditions during displacement were the main reason behind the population’s decision to return. According to Bisu Tahiro Clément, administrative secretary of the Bafuna group, many families could no longer survive without access to essential services and agricultural activities. However, the security situation remains fragile. Fighters from the two opposing Uhuru DRC factions are still reportedly present in some villages, particularly Iseya and Kilambo, raising fears of renewed confrontations. Despite these risks, many residents have chosen to rebuild their lives and resume farming, their main source of livelihood. Local authorities are calling on the FARDC to urgently strengthen its presence in Batakirwa to protect civilians, secure villages, and prevent further clashes between the rival armed factions.