Precarious Calm in Kalembe After Night Clashes

Masisi, January 14, 2026 --A relative calm returned Wednesday morning, January 14, 2026, in Kalembe, located in the Bashali Mokoto group of Masisi territory, North Kivu, following overnight clashes between AFC/M23 rebels and the Wazalendo. Reports indicate that the Wazalendo launched simultaneous attacks around 8:00 p.m., aiming to dislodge the rebels from the town they have occupied for over a year. Loud explosions from heavy weapons were heard, forcing many to remain indoors. The human toll from these clashes is currently unknown. The town continues to host several displaced families fleeing insecurity in surrounding areas. Recent weeks in the Kalembe region have seen repeated clashes, causing mass displacement and looting of residents’ property, with the most recent major incident reported on December 24, 2025.

Faits rapportés

Masisi, January 14, 2026 --A relative calm returned Wednesday morning, January 14, 2026, in Kalembe, located in the Bashali Mokoto group of Masisi territory, North Kivu, following overnight clashes between AFC/M23 rebels and the Wazalendo. Reports indicate that the Wazalendo launched simultaneous attacks around 8:00 p.m., aiming to dislodge the rebels from the town they have occupied for over a year. Loud explosions from heavy weapons were heard, forcing many to remain indoors. The human toll from these clashes is currently unknown. The town continues to host several displaced families fleeing insecurity in surrounding areas. Recent weeks in the Kalembe region have seen repeated clashes, causing mass displacement and looting of residents’ property, with the most recent major incident reported on December 24, 2025.