FARDC Launches Offensive to Retake Uvira Amid Ongoing Clashes with AFC/M23

Uvira, South Kivu - December 27, 2025 - The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have launched a major campaign to retake strategic areas of South Kivu, including the city of Uvira, from the AFC/M23 rebel coalition.

On December 24, FARDC, in coordination with Wazalendo forces, attacked AFC/M23 positions in the Makobola Center in Fizi territory, employing warplanes, drones, and heavy weaponry. By Christmas Eve, AFC/M23 fighters withdrew from Makobola after a two-week occupation, with Wazalendo forces making significant territorial gains.

On December 26, FARDC conducted air and drone strikes targeting AFC/M23 positions at the port of Kalundu, near Uvira on Lake Tanganyika.

As of December 27, FARDC has regained control of Makobola 1 and Makobola 2, while fighting continues in areas approximately seven kilometers from Uvira, including Katongo and Kabimba, according to military spokesman Gen. Maj. Sylvain Ekenge Bomusa.

The AFC/M23 entered Uvira on December 9 but withdrew on December 17-18 as part of efforts to build trust in ongoing peace talks with the DRC government. Despite leaving the city, rebel forces remain in surrounding areas, including southern Makobola, northern approaches, and western mountain regions, creating tension with the government, which insists the city has not truly been vacated.

FARDC and Wazalendo appear focused on pushing AFC/M23 fighters back into Uvira, signaling to mediators, including representatives from the United States and Qatar, that the city is not yet fully under civilian or neutral control. This approach mirrors FARDC’s earlier strategy in Makobola, where the city was retaken by force following a rebel withdrawal.

The period between December 14 and 28, 2025, reflects a complex interplay of regional security challenges, diplomatic maneuvers, and steady domestic progress for Rwanda. While tensions with neighboring Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remain high-characterized by mutual allegations of shelling and support for rebel groups -Rwanda has maintained a proactive stance. This is evidenced by tentative security talks with Burundi and a commitment to dismantling the FDLR through international frameworks.

On the international stage, Rwanda continues to project stability and military competence. Its security forces have played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of presidential elections in the Central African Republic and maintaining security in Mozambique's Cabo Delgado province. These efforts have been bolstered by strong domestic messaging from President Paul Kagame, who emphasized national unity and the professionalism of the security services.

Economically, Rwanda shows significant resilience and strategic growth. The country successfully generated over $13.7 million in agricultural exports in a single five-day window and continues to expand its reach as a financial hub through new double taxation avoidance agreements. Coupled with major investments in infrastructure, such as the $48 million Gisagara irrigation project , Rwanda appears well-positioned to meet its long-term economic acceleration goals.

In summary, despite the persistent threat of regional instability and diplomatic pressure from external actors, Rwanda enters the final days of 2025 with a focus on internal cohesion, regional de-escalation, and sustained economic development.