North Kivu: 13 missing and 8 women raped during clashes between M23 and FARDC

Between 28 September and 8 October 2025, violent fighting broke out between M23 rebels and the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) in the chiefdoms of Bwito and Bahunde in North Kivu, leaving at least 4 dead, 13 missing and 8 women raped, according to civil society. These clashes resulted in the burning of several homes, including the Nyabiteja primary school, as well as the looting of the Muliki health centre and the theft of around 20 cattle.

The communities of Bukombo, Tongo, Bambo, Mutanda, Kihondo and Ufamandu 1er were among the worst affected. As people flee to Bambo, Kabizo, Butare and Ngungu, civil society organisations are denouncing serious human rights violations and urging the authorities to strengthen the protection of civilians in this region, which is plagued by persistent insecurity.