South Kivu : clashes between Wazalendo militias supported by Kinshasa and the Twirwaneho group affiliated with the M23

SOS Médias Burundi

Bukavu, August 6, 2025 — Violent fighting has been raging since Wednesday in the Itombwe sector, Mwenga territory (South Kivu), between Wazalendo militiamen, supported by the Congolese authorities, and the Twirwaneho armed group, composed mainly of fighters from the Banyamulenge community and affiliated with the M23 rebel movement.

Clashes in a resource-rich region

The M23, an ally of the Twirwaneho group, has controlled vast strategic mineral-rich areas in eastern DRC since the beginning of the year, as well as the provincial capitals of North and South Kivu. Wednesday’s fighting was concentrated around the towns of Mikenge, Marunde, and Bukunji, where the Wazalendo, supported by the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), launched a coordinated offensive against positions held by Twirwaneho.

A complex military alliance against the M23

The Wazalendo enjoy massive military support. The Burundi National Defense Force (FDNB) has deployed at least 10,000 soldiers to fight alongside the DRC Armed Forces (FARDC) and Wazalendo militias against the M23 and its allies. This coalition recently conducted several joint operations in the towns of Irumba, Monyi, Kaseke, and Rutigita in an attempt to regain control of the Itombwe sector.

Statements and cross-accusations

In a statement sent to SOS Médias Burundi, Aimable Nabulizi, spokesperson for the Wazalendo in South Kivu, accused Twirwaneho fighters of attacking their positions, without, however, acknowledging the support received from the FDLR or the Burundian and Congolese armies.

The Twirwaneho group is affiliated with the Congo River Alliance (AFC), a politico-military movement to which the M23 is also linked. This affiliation fuels tensions in a region already marked by ethnic rivalries and major mining issues.

A fragile peace process

These clashes come as the Congolese government continues peace negotiations with the AFC/M23 in the hope of stabilizing the eastern part of the country. However, the escalation of violence in South Kivu risks jeopardizing this fragile process and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

For now, no official death toll or loss of life has been released, while civilians fear further mass displacement in this tense region.