Reports from the South Kivu region indicate that heavy fighting has broken out in the Mulima area of the Fizi Territory, between the Twirwaneho militia and the Congolese Army (FARDC).
The clashes began early this Tuesday morning, April 1, 2025, around 10:00 AM, when gunfire erupted between the opposing sides. The fighting started in the Mukoko area, where government forces launched an attack on the Twirwaneho militia, which quickly countered and repelled the attack.
Reports confirm that by around 4:00 AM, the Twirwaneho militia had successfully taken control of the Mulima settlement and surrounding areas. The militia also advanced into the nearby Rusuku center, which had previously been abandoned by FARDC troops.
Further reports indicate that the militia captured Rusuku after many FARDC soldiers had vacated their positions and moved toward Fizi iZone. This decision followed news that Brigadier General Charles Sematama, also known as “Intare-Batinya,” the leader of Twirwaneho, had arrived in Minembwe from Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu.
As of now, the fighting continues on both sides. The FARDC is reportedly launching artillery strikes in a bid to push back the Twirwaneho forces, but they are said to be retreating toward Fizi iZone. We continue to monitor the developments of this ongoing conflict.
