Uvira: Four Dead, Many Injured in FARDC-Wazalendo Clashes

Uvira, South Kivu, November 23, 2025 - The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) army, FARDC, reported that four people were killed and 14 others injured in clashes with Wazalendo fighters in the town of Uvira, South Kivu province.

The incident occurred when the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) was distributing food at the Munanira school, near the Uvira Cathedral. Armed Wazalendo fighters attacked and attempted to seize the supplies by force.

DRC soldiers, including members of the Panthers and the civilian rescue battalion, responded, but the Wazalendo refused to comply, sparking heavy fighting involving small and heavy arms fire.

The clashes forced aid workers and football fans to seek refuge at a nearby church, where many others were celebrating Catholic Youth Day.

Lt Mbuyi Kalonji Reagan, spokesman for the DRC military in South Kivu, confirmed that calm had returned, but reported four deaths, including a government soldier, two Wazalendo, and one civilian.

He also confirmed 14 injuries, including two soldiers, nine civilians, and three Wazalendo fighters. Soldiers were treated at a military hospital, while civilians received care at the Uvira General Hospital.

Lt Mbuyi added that the attackers were not genuine Wazalendo, but were allegedly being used by enemies to create chaos in government-controlled areas and disrupt local security.