North Kivu: violent clashes between M23 and Wazalendo on the borders of Masisi and Walikale

On the night of Wednesday, July 8 to Thursday, July 9, 2026, heavy and light weapons clashes erupted between AFC/M23 rebels and a coalition of Wazalendo groups in the localities of Kalembe, Kalonge, Kivuye, and Mpati, on the borders of Masisi and Walikale territories in North Kivu. The fighting lasted until 4 a.m., forcing residents to take shelter or flee. A fragile calm returned Thursday morning, but fear persists after weeks of violence. The previous week, AFC/M23 was blamed for punitive operations that burned homes in Kasake, Shangi, and Rukenge, worsening the civilian toll.