Fresh fighting has broken out in the highlands of Uvira, in the southern part of South Kivu Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, involving the Congolese army (FARDC) and AFC/M23 rebel fighters.
The clashes erupted early Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in the Rusizi Plain, particularly along the Buriba–Kabunambo axis and on the hills of Kyamate, according to local sources.
The renewed violence has raised fresh security concerns in the area, with reports indicating the use of both heavy and light weapons.
Civilians have begun fleeing the affected مناطق, with residents from Biriba and Kabunambo heading toward Sange town, while others from Runingu have sought refuge in Kiliba.
By press time, no official figures had been released on casualties, including the number of people killed or injured.
Bertrand Bisimwa, leader of the M23 rebel group, said in a statement posted on X that the Congolese government had opted for a military approach, disregarding prior peace commitments.
“The Kinshasa regime has chosen the path of war, stating that commitments made in Doha hold no value. This is evident in the continued attacks on our positions. We will respond accordingly to ensure the protection of our population,” he said.
Security analysts warn that the situation could further deteriorate if urgent diplomatic efforts are not undertaken to secure a lasting peace solution in the region.
