Fighting persists in Masisi despite de-escalation initiatives

Since Monday, July 13, violent clashes have pitted AFC/M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, against Wazalendo groups allied with the FARDC in Masisi territory, North Kivu. The fighting is concentrated in Kibabi, Nyamaboko, and Bafuna, affecting localities such as Kasenyi, Mianja, and Bukumbirire, causing new population displacements. On Tuesday evening, a Wazalendo position in Kinyahongo was hit by a drone strike attributed to AFC/M23. The AFC/M23 spokesman justified the continuation of offensives as necessary to establish a 'security perimeter'.