Heavy fighting has once again erupted between the armed forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and fighters from the AFC/M23 coalition. The clashes took place in areas located near the border between the Masisi and Walikale territories in North Kivu Province, eastern Congo.
According to reports, the fighting began around 3 a.m. on Friday, April 25, 2025, in locations including Kasopo and Kinyumba.
These areas lie along the border between Masisi and Walikale and are near Nyabyondo-Mutongo-Pinga.
Due to the heavy and light weaponry being heard in the areas where the fighting occurred, reports say residents living near those locations were overwhelmed with fear, prompting many of them to flee in search of safety in areas not affected by the fighting.
This fighting comes just a day after, on Thursday, April 24, 2025, Wazalendo forces accused the AFC/M23 of attacking them in the Birubi area near Mutongo, and also of attempting to launch an assault along the Mutongo–Lwibo road.
Interestingly, this outbreak of violence comes just one day after a joint statement was released by the DRC and AFC/M23, announcing a ceasefire agreement between both parties.
Additionally, reports indicate that AFC/M23 forces have withdrawn from the Kibati area in Walikale territory, reportedly heading toward Kashebere, near the Masisi border. However, the reason behind their withdrawal from that area remains unclear. Some sources suggest that the move may be part of efforts to implement peace resolutions discussed during peace talks between M23 and the Kinshasa government, held in Doha, Qatar.
