Fresh fighting broke out on Thursday in multiple locations across North and South Kivu provinces in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The clashes involved the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo, allied Wazalendo militia fighters, and the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation rebel movement. Local sources reported fighting in Kilongo and Mahanga villages in North Kivu, as well as in Kibati, Walikale Territory.
The fighting also spread to South Kivu, with reports of clashes in Nyamarhege, Lulaba, and Chulwe localities in Nzibira Sector, and Kasika in Walungu Territory. According to local sources, the clashes in South Kivu began early on Thursday morning, between 7:00 am and 8:00 am. The violence has raised concerns about the ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire in the region.
Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation, confirmed the fighting in a statement on Thursday afternoon. He accused government forces and their Wazalendo allies of launching attacks using combat drones, fighter jets, heavy artillery, and ground troops. Kanyuka also alleged that the authorities were fuelling hate speech and imposing war on civilian populations.
The renewed violence comes amid continuing diplomatic efforts to end the conflict in eastern DR Congo. The region has experienced repeated fighting between government forces and armed groups, undermining regional and international peace initiatives. The situation had already deteriorated earlier in the week, with fighting reported on October 3 in Masisi Territory, resulting in four civilian deaths and 10 injuries.
The Congolese government has consistently accused Rwanda of supporting the rebel movement, an allegation denied by both Kigali and the rebels. The Front for the Refoundation of the Nation says its armed campaign is intended to address corruption, discrimination, and longstanding grievances within the Congolese government. The continued fighting has heightened insecurity and displaced thousands of civilians.
The latest clashes come as James Swan, the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, has returned to Goma. The security situation remains volatile, with both sides repeatedly accusing each other of violating commitments under the peace process.
The ongoing conflict in North and South Kivu has complicated efforts by regional and international actors to secure a lasting ceasefire. The situation remains uncertain, with the potential for further escalation. Key points include:
Key points
- The clashes involved the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo, allied Wazalendo militia fighters, and the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation rebel movement.
- The renewed violence comes amid continuing diplomatic efforts to end the conflict in eastern DR Congo.
- The situation remains volatile, with both sides repeatedly accusing each other of violating commitments under the peace process.
