Clashes near Rubaya underscore North Kivu’s strategic fault lines

Fresh fighting near the mining town of Rubaya is once again highlighting how North Kivu’s conflict revolves around strategic terrain and economically sensitive corridors.

Some reports by Actualite.cd say that clashes on February 22, 2026 pitted AFC/M23 rebels against Wazalendo fighters in Kasenyi, Chugi and Kinigi, localities in Masisi territory (Bahunde chiefdom) close to Rubaya’s mining zone. Local sources cited by the outlet said Wazalendo regained control of the three areas and recovered weapons and ammunition, while also capturing several rebel fighters, without giving a number.

According to the same reporting, AFC/M23 reinforced positions on a hill known as “Sita”, as it sought to contain the advance and attempt to retake Chugi and Kinigi. The group also accused the government coalition of violating a ceasefire and mentioned drone strikes in parts of Masisi.

Rubaya’s wider mining perimeter sits inside a region that has become increasingly central to the conflict’s economic dimension. Recent reporting has highlighted the scale of mineral extraction around Rubaya including coltan/tantalum supply chains and how insecurity in the area compounds both governance and humanitarian pressures.

By February 23, the outlet said calm was “fragile” along the front line, with residents fearing another flare-up an increasingly familiar pattern in a zone where shifts in control can quickly reshape local security conditions around key routes and mining sites.

Sources: Actualite.cd