Masisi, DRC — On July 31, 2025, heavy fighting broke out across several villages in the Ufamandu groupement, Katoyi sector in Masisi territory, North Kivu, between M23 rebels under the AFC coalition and various local armed groups. The clashes have raised significant concerns over the potential expansion of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), already a region destabilized by weeks of violent conflict.
M23 Campaign Against FDLR Rebels
The fighting unfolded as M23 rebels continued their military campaign against suspected FDLR rebels and their allies. The group’s operations have caused widespread displacement of civilians, with many fleeing toward Waloa Yungu groupement in Walikale territory. The humanitarian situation remains dire, as local sources reported significant difficulty for aid agencies to respond due to increased insecurity and access challenges in the region.
The Congo River Alliance (AFC), of which M23 is a member, had earlier accused the Congolese government of violating the ceasefire agreement signed in Doha. In a statement issued on July 30, spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka expressed frustration over the government’s actions, accusing Kinshasa of violating the ceasefire and failing to protect civilian populations.
Escalating Tensions in Masisi and Rutshuru
The violence on Bumba hill south of Remeka marked one of the most intense points of the conflict, with M23/AFC fighters clashing against the Wazalendo militia, led by Noah Maachano. Simultaneously, clashes along the Luke-Kasenyi-Miole axis in neighboring Kibabi and Nyamaboko groupements have contributed to a rising death toll and further displacement.
While M23 forces are focused on neutralizing FDLR-affiliated militias, including the group led by the warlord Mutayomba, the fighting has intensified with local militias and rebels in several areas of North Kivu. The region remains unstable, with numerous civilian casualties being reported in areas still under rebel control.
Challenges to the Peace Process
The renewed violence comes just over a week after the signing of a framework agreement between the Congolese government and M23/AFC in Doha, which had raised hopes for de-escalation. However, confidence in the peace process is quickly eroding as M23 appears to be consolidating its territorial hold. Reinforcements have been reported in Kateku and Buleusa in the Ikobo groupement, Walikale, further complicating peace efforts.
Security and Humanitarian Crisis Mounting
Local civil society groups in Masisi, Rutshuru, and Walikale have expressed grave concerns over the deteriorating security situation. The United Nations and other international stakeholders have yet to issue formal statements, though calls for urgent international intervention to de-escalate the violence are growing louder.
The deteriorating conditions have made it increasingly difficult for humanitarian organizations to access affected populations. With civilians fleeing to nearby regions, the humanitarian toll continues to rise, adding further strain on already overburdened resources.
Next Steps for Peace and Security
As hostilities persist and political dialogue falters, the international community is facing mounting pressure to act. The UN and regional powers must address the root causes of the conflict and find a sustainable solution to protect civilians and restore stability in eastern DRC.
