Fighting intensifies between the FARDC and FRN along the Kashebere-Kibati axis in North Kivu

Clashes between the FARDC and rebels of the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN) have intensified around Kibati in Walikale territory, North Kivu. Heavy and small-arms fire on Thursday caused panic and drove many residents to flee to Kashebere and other nearby communities. The FARDC and their Wazalendo allies remain positioned on the outskirts of Kibati, which is still occupied by the FRN, as fighting focuses on the Kashebere-Kibati axis. Operations over the past three days enabled government forces to retake at least five localities in the Osso-Banyungu sector, but road traffic on the Goma-Walikale route has been suspended for several weeks.