Masisi: Gradual Return of Residents to Malemo After Clashes Between Wazalendo and AFC/M23

Malemo, a locality in the Masisi territory of North Kivu, is beginning to experience a semblance of calm after violent clashes between wazalendo militias and AFC/M23 rebels. According to Actualité.cd, the fighting resulted in the deaths of at least one soldier from the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) and two members of armed groups.

The military spokesperson for the Sokola 2 operational sector confirmed the deaths of these three combatants during an intervention against the AFC/M23. These clashes are part of a series of conflicts that have shaken the region for several months, as the army attempts to regain control of strategic areas occupied by various armed groups.

Local sources report that the calm in Malemo remains fragile, with residents slowly beginning to return to their homes. However, the situation remains concerning due to a strong military presence in the region. The governor of North Kivu has called for vigilance and solidarity among communities to prevent further escalations of violence.

The fighting in Malemo is not an isolated case. In March 2019, Mwesso also experienced clashes between the FARDC and armed groups, leading to a massive displacement of the population. Similar events occurred in May 2020 in Remeka, where violence forced residents to flee their villages.

The security situation in the Masisi territory remains unstable, with several villages deserted due to ongoing fighting.