Maï-Maï fighters have mobilized from Fizi and Mwenga territories to support the defense of Bukavu against the advancing M23 movement. The call to action was made by Lieutenant General Pacifique Masunzu, commander of the Third Military Zone of the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC), who currently leads the military efforts against the M23 presence in South Kivu.
At the beginning of this month, the M23 movement entered South Kivu after seizing the town of Minova in Kalehe territory. The group has since intensified its offensives, advancing toward Bukavu.
Faced with M23’s territorial gains and imminent threat to Bukavu, Lt. Gen. Masunzu reportedly summoned leaders of Maï-Maï militias to join forces with the Burundian military, FARDC, and FDLR in defending the provincial capital and its strategic airport.
Sources from Minembwe.com indicate that Maï-Maï fighters who responded to the call include Kibukira, who oversaw operations in areas like Mikenke, Mibunda, Lulenge, and Cyohagati; Kakobanyi, responsible for parts of Cyohagati, including Ngoma and Mutambara; and Ngomanzito, who operated in Rugezi, Kabanju, and smaller areas in Lulenge.
Some of these fighters have already arrived in Kavumu and Bukavu, while others remain stationed in Kamanyola and various parts of the Plaine region to prevent further M23 incursions.
Reports suggest that it is not just the Maï-Maï who have bolstered defenses, as Burundian forces have also increased their presence. However, despite prior deployments to Goma alongside FARDC, SADC troops, mercenaries, and Wazalendo fighters, those efforts failed to prevent M23 from capturing the city.
Meanwhile, several political figures have reportedly fled Bukavu, seeking refuge in European countries. Among those believed to have left is Dr. Denis Mukwege, a prominent figure in the region.
The European Union recently issued a warning to its nationals in Bukavu, advising them to leave due to the imminent threat posed by the M23’s advance.
Currently, intense clashes between M23 and government forces are taking place in Kalehe territory, near the border with Kabare, a strategic entry point into Bukavu.
