The AFC/M23 coalition has taken control of Uvira city, though some areas remain beyond the reach of the group’s fighters.
On the evening of Tuesday, December 9, 2025, AFC/M23 fully entered Uvira following intense clashes that had been ongoing for several days against the FARDC, Burundian forces, Wazalendo fighters, FDLR militants, and the Imbonerakure.
Information from local residents and security sources confirms that neighborhoods such as Mulongwe and several other parts of Uvira are now under AFC/M23 control. However, pockets of the city, including Kalundu and parts of the port area, have not yet been captured.
The takeover of Uvira comes after the group had already seized control of all areas in the Rusizi plain, in battles that began earlier this week.
Reliable reports indicate that some FARDC troops, Burundian forces, FDLR fighters, Wazalendo, and certain Imbonerakure members have fled to Burundi, while others have retreated to the Fizi territory bordering Uvira.
