Clashes have resumed in the rugged terrain of Minembwe, South Kivu Province, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), after FARDC troops and FDNB forces from Burundi joined forces to launch a new attack on rebel strongholds in the Kuwamabuye and Kabanju areas. According to the Front pour la Refondation de la Nation (FRN) rebel group, the attack occurred on Monday, November 9, 2026, and was repelled by FRN fighters.
The FRN reported that prior to the ground attack, airstrikes were carried out on civilian areas overnight on Sunday, with two shells landing in Point Zéro and three in Rugezi. The rebel group condemned the attacks, citing concerns for civilian lives and infrastructure. However, the impact of these attacks has not been independently verified.
This is not the first time the Kuwamabuye and Kabanju areas have been embroiled in fighting. On October 28, 2026, the SOS Médias Burundi reported that FRN rebels claimed to have captured several positions held by FARDC and FDNB forces, including Gipimo, Kuwamabuye, Rugezi, and part of Kabanju. FRN spokesperson Fidèle Rugabo stated that government forces had suffered casualties and abandoned military equipment.
The ongoing conflict in South Kivu remains a major security concern in eastern DRC, with FARDC forces and FDNB troops, as well as Wazalendo militia, clashing with rebel groups such as FRN and Twirwaneho. The resurgence of fighting in Fizi, Rugezi, Kabanju, and Minembwe has left local residents living in fear, particularly due to the use of heavy weapons and airstrikes.
According to FRN, the November 9 attack was repelled, with government forces reportedly maintaining control of the areas they were fighting for. However, there has been no independent confirmation of the outcome of the attack, casualties on either side, or the current status of the contested positions.
The conflict in eastern DRC has led to significant humanitarian concerns, with thousands of civilians displaced or affected by the fighting. The situation remains volatile, with frequent clashes and reports of human rights abuses.
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating violence in eastern DRC, calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Efforts to broker a ceasefire or negotiate a peaceful settlement have been ongoing, but a lasting solution remains elusive.
Key points
- The conflict in eastern DRC has resulted in significant humanitarian concerns, with thousands of civilians displaced or affected by the fighting.
- The situation remains volatile, with frequent clashes and reports of human rights abuses.
- Efforts to broker a ceasefire or negotiate a peaceful settlement have been ongoing, but a lasting solution remains elusive.
