Kalehe: FRN rebels take control of Bulambika

Rebels from the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN) took control of Bulambika in South Kivu’s Kalehe territory on Sunday, November 8, 2026, after FARDC troops and Wazalendo fighters withdrew. The advance came 24 hours after the same fighters captured Bitale and threatens the strategic RN3 road linking Bukavu and Hombo, as well as the rural commune of Hombo-Sud. It could also disrupt trade and population movements between South Kivu and the neighboring Walikale territory in North Kivu. Rebel advances have prompted further civilian displacement and disrupted local economic and social activities.