Wazalendo Launch Offensive to Retake Kibanda in Masisi

The Wazalendo militia has launched a major offensive aimed at reclaiming the strategic village of Kibanda from the rebel AFC/M23 alliance, triggering a second consecutive day of intense fighting on 26 February in North Kivu’s Masisi territory. According to Actualité.cd, Wazalendo fighters attacked rebel positions on 25 February in a bid to recapture the town, which M23 has held for several months.

Heavy and light weapons fire rattled Kibanda and nearby villages from early 26 February, creating a climate of fear; locals, already traumatised by months of insecurity, fled towards safer areas and socio‑economic activities ground to a halt. With no official casualty figures yet, sources say the situation is extremely volatile and both sides are reportedly bringing in reinforcements.

The Kibanda assault is part of a wider offensive by the Congolese army (FARDC) and Wazalendo across southern Masisi. A Critical Threats review published on 23 February noted that FARDC and pro‑government militias had launched coordinated attacks on multiple axes in Masisi and Rutshuru districts. These operations follow a fragile ceasefire announced on 18 February, which rebel leader Bertrand Bisimwa claims the government has breached by opting for a “generalised offensive.”

United Nations experts warned on 26 February that human‑rights defenders in M23‑controlled areas are facing “extreme” violence, including abductions and torture, underscoring the escalating human‑rights risks as the conflict widens.

Masisi’s front lines remain fluid. Another Actualité.cd report later on 26 February described how the Wazalendo briefly seized the villages of Kasenyi and Luke before M23 counterattacks restored rebel control. Communications in the nearby mining hub of Rubaya were cut for a day after drone and artillery strikes damaged cell towers.

Foreign observers note that M23’s ability to reposition forces quickly bolstered by Rwandan support complicates Wazalendo and FARDC efforts to hold retaken areas. Meanwhile, international media such as Prensa Latina confirm that clashes are ongoing in Kibanda and other Masisi localities, highlighting the involvement of both Congolese forces and Wazalendo militias. With no clear victor and civilians bearing the brunt of the fighting, the situation in Masisi remains precarious despite diplomatic efforts to revive the ceasefire.