The agglomeration of Remeka and several neighboring localities in the Ufamandu Ier group, Masisi territory, North Kivu, have been retaken by the FARDC and Wazalendo groups. This development occurred on Saturday morning, October 3, following several hours of clashes against AFC/M23 combatants who had occupied the area for a week. According to local military sources, fighting resumed around 4 am, with a coalition of about five Wazalendo groups, led by Mutayomba Jams, successfully regaining control of Remeka, Muhororo, Kamuhobe, and Mihano.
The situation remained tense in the morning, with detonations still heard in several nearby villages, suggesting ongoing clashes or military movements in the sector. Remeka holds significant importance in the military setup of this part of Masisi territory. Until the end of June, it was one of the main strongholds of the FARDC and Wazalendo groups. Since July, it has become a key hotspot for clashes between the Congolese army, backed by local self-defense groups, and AFC/M23 combatants.
Remeka has changed hands several times in recent weeks. After losing control of Remeka in August, the Wazalendo groups managed to recapture it around September 17, only to cede it again on September 25. The announced retaking on Saturday highlights the intensity of the clashes and the strategic importance of this agglomeration for both sides. According to several local actors, Remeka's position allows for control and securing of the axes leading to the Rubaya mining center and the Ngungu agropastoral center.
These two localities are currently occupied by rebels. The Wazalendo groups have been seeking to advance towards these areas for several months, considered strategic points in the conflict affecting this part of North Kivu. This new military development occurs in a context of recurring clashes in Masisi territory, where fighting between FARDC, their Wazalendo allies, and AFC/M23 combatants continues to fuel insecurity and population displacement.
The clashes between FARDC, Wazalendo, and AFC/M23 have been ongoing for several months, causing significant humanitarian concerns. The situation on the ground remains volatile, with frequent exchanges of fire and shifting control of key territories. Local sources report that the Wazalendo groups have been making efforts to regain control of key areas, including Remeka, to push back against the AFC/M23 advances.
The retaking of Remeka and nearby localities is seen as a significant development in the conflict. However, the situation remains fluid, with both sides suffering casualties and the humanitarian situation continuing to deteriorate. The international community has expressed concern over the escalating violence in the region, calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The conflict in Masisi territory has resulted in significant displacement of populations, with many civilians forced to flee their homes due to the violence. Humanitarian organizations have been working to provide assistance to those affected, but the situation remains challenging due to the ongoing clashes and insecurity. The FARDC and Wazalendo groups have been working to stabilize the situation, but the conflict remains a major concern for regional stability.
Key points
- The FARDC and Wazalendo groups have retaken control of Remeka and several nearby localities in Masisi territory, North Kivu.
- The conflict in Masisi territory has resulted in significant humanitarian concerns, including population displacement and ongoing clashes.
- The situation on the ground remains volatile, with frequent exchanges of fire and shifting control of key territories.
