Congo War Security Review

Data Cutoff: September 11, 2026, at 2 P.M. EST

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Key Takeaway: M23 continued to consolidate its territorial control in southern Masisi district in North Kivu and reportedly pushed westward into previously uncontested areas of southwestern Masisi near the border with Walikale district for the first time. M23 made gains toward Pinga town on the RP1030 on northern Masisi’s border with Walikale. Significant fighting between pro-Congolese government forces and M23-allied Twirwaneho fighters took place on a line of advance toward Minembwe town in the South Kivu highlands. Private military contractors employed by the Congolese government allegedly arrested two Burundian army officers in South Kivu and transferred them to Kinshasa, the Congolese capital.

Kinetic Activity in Rutshuru & Eastern Masisi Districts

Nothing significant to report.

Northern Axis: Lubero-Butembo-Beni-Bunia

Nothing significant to report.

Southern Axis: Bukavu-Uvira-Baraka-Kalemie

Significant fighting between pro-Congolese government forces and M23-allied Twirwaneho fighters took place on a line of advance toward Minembwe town in the South Kivu highlands. CTP reported previously that pro-Congolese government forces reportedly reinforced their ranks and continued their offensive launched in mid-August on Twirwaneho fighters in the highlands to capture Point Zéro, an operationally significant hilltop about 15 miles east of Minembwe town.[1] A Twirwaneho source and possible militant claimed on social media on September 3 that fighters from Israeli-trained FARDC special force units known as the Owls retreated on the Point Zéro axis after suffering setbacks from Twirwaneho forces.[2] M23-aligned media outlets and sources on social media claimed that Twirwaneho fighters took control of Nakihele village after dislodging the Congolese army (FARDC), Wazalendo fighters, and Burundian army (FDNB) troops on September 3.[3] Nakihele is about four miles northeast of Kanguli and 17 miles east of Point Zéro on local roads. Twirwaneho and M23-aligned sources claimed on social media on September 4 that three new Owl battalions trained by Israeli operatives in Lubumbashi in the Katanga region in the southern DRC had deployed to the front lines to Kwamulima (Mulima), which is on a line of advance toward Point Zéro and a key forward position for the DRC coalition.[4] Local sources in Mulima told the M23-aligned media outlet Kivu Morning Post on September 4 that several battalions consisting of FARDC and FDNB troops had arrived.[5] Twirwaneho’s spokesperson, Fidèle Rugabo, claimed on social media on September 4 that pro-Congolese government forces launched drone and artillery attacks from Mulima on Nyaruhinga and Mukoko villages around Minembwe and were setting conditions for new attacks on the Rugezi and Kabanja axes south of Minembwe.[6] One Congolese-government aligned source claimed in several posts on social media on September 4 that pro-Congolese government forces were bombing Nyaruhinga and Mukoko and conducting attacks on M23-allied force positions in Rugezi.[7] Congolese government-aligned sources first said on social media in unverified claims on September 4 that the FARDC shot down an enemy aircraft over Minembwe.[8] The FARDC reportedly conducted attacks on Twirwaneho positions around Point Zéro and Angùle village on September 6.[9] Angùle village may be in the locality of Nakihele. M23-aligned and Twirwaneho sources claimed that Twirwaneho repelled the attacks and routed pro-Congolese government forces before taking control of Mulima and Angùle on September 6.[10] M23-aligned media sources claimed that Twirwaneho defeated pro-Congolese government forces that had deployed to Mulima in major fighting in Kanguli and killed three Colombian private military contractors (PMCs).[11] Independent French journalist Christophe Riguad cited on social media several security sources on September 6 who claimed that Colombian PMCs linked to Erik Prince, an American citizen and PMC with close ties to US President Donald Trump’s administration, withdrew from the highlands to Uvira town.[12] One M23-aligned source claimed on social media on September 6 that the Prince-linked PMCs who fled were present at a hotel in Gatumba town near Bujumbura, Burundi’s economic capital.[13] The M23-aligned investigative outlet Great Lakes Eye cited military sources in an unverified report on September 9 who claimed that pro-Congolese government forces suffered heavy losses in Fizi in early September, with as many as 470 soldiers killed during operations against rebel coalition forces.[14]

Congolese government-aligned media sources began claiming on social media on September 6 that pro-Congolese government forces retained control of Kanguli and Mulima, however.[15] The Congolese media outlet Actualite.cd reported on September 7 that locals in Kanguli, Masunga, and Nakihele had fled after clashes between the two sides since September 6 but that pro-Congolese government forces retained control of Kanguli, Nakiehele and Mulima.[16] M23-aligned and Twirwaneho sources claimed on social media on September 7 that Twirwaneho forces captured a vehicle-mounted Chinese-made Yitian short-range anti-aircraft missile system that PMCs had abandoned before withdrawing from Kanguli or Mulima, however.[17] The FARDC’s regional spokesperson denied in a statement on September 8 that Mulima had fallen to Twirwaneho forces and claimed that the FARDC had recovered a position near Point Zéro.[18] Media sources on both sides claimed on social media on September 8 that the other side suffered heavy losses in fighting around Kanguli.[19] Congolese government-aligned media sources posted videos on social media on September 9 claiming that rebel forces coming from the Kaziba chiefdom in southern Walungu district were moving toward the Uvira and Mwenga highlands.[20] Two Congolese government-aligned media sources had claimed on September 7 that pro-Congolese government forces attacked M23 positions in Kaziba on September 7.[21] M23’s spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, claimed on social media that pro-Congolese government forces conducted attacks using one-way attack drones on Point Zéro and Nyamabuguma near Minembwe on September 10.[22] Rugabo and Twirwaneho-aligned sources claimed on September 10 and 11 that pro-Congolese government forces continued to regroup in various areas in the highlands and midlands—including Lubarika in Uvira district—and reinforce their ranks on at least four axes around Minembwe.[23] Rugabo claimed that four FARDC battalions, two FDNB battalions, and Wazalendo and P5 fighters were stationed in Rubarati and two other villages near the Bijombo group in the midlands northeast of Minembwe.[24] Pro-Congolese government forces reportedly recaptured Rubarati and other operationally significant positions in the midlands northwest of Uvira town in late August.[25] The uptick in fighting in the highlands since mid-to-late August has reportedly caused significant humanitarian displacements.[26]

Media ecosystems on both sides echoed new claims of foreign involvement in South Kivu. M23-aligned sources claimed on social media on September 4 that the Tanzanian army recently deployed troops to the eastern DRC in support of pro-Congolese government forces.[27] M23-aligned sources also claimed that the Angolan army recently deployed troops to Katanga.[28] One Congolese-government aligned source claimed on social media on September 3 that the Tanzanian army will deploy to the eastern DRC to support the FARDC.[29] The same source also said that Angola troops would support the FARDC in Katanga against M23.[30] M23-aligned sources also claimed on September 4 that Belgium forces stationed in Kindu town in Maniema province had deployed 300 to 400 troops and ground assets to the eastern DRC.[31] A separate Congolese-government aligned source claimed on social media on September 3 that Rwandan, Kenyan, and Somali soldiers crossed the border into the DRC from Rwanda toward Kamanyola town in South Kivu on September 2.[32] This source claimed on September 4 that Somali and Kenyan fighters were present around Point Zéro.[33] Congolese government-aligned sources had first claimed that Somali nationals were fighting on the side of M23 in Walungu district in mid-August.[34] The head of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s office released information on social media on September 7 about Ukrainian intelligence operatives deployed across Africa and included a photo of Ukrainian fighters deployed in the DRC.[35] One Congolese government-aligned media source and likely FARDC special unit soldier claimed on social media that the photo was taken in the highlands and that Ukrainian operatives have helped M23 and the Rwandan army pilot attack drones used against pro-Congolese government forces.[36] The source claimed that a Ukrainian national was one of the pilots operating a Russian-made Antonov-model cargo plane that pro-Congolese government forces had shot down over Minembwe in late August.[37] Another Congolese government-aligned source had claimed in late August that the reported two pilots were Ukrainian.[38] M23-aligned and pro-Rwandan media sources have claimed previously in 2026 that Ukrainian PMCs have fought on the side of the Congolese government against M23.

Northwest Axis: Masisi-Walikale-Lubutu-Kisangani

M23 continued to consolidate its territorial control in southern Masisi district in North Kivu and reportedly pushed westward into previously uncontested areas of southwestern Masisi near the border with Walikale district for the first time. CTP reported previously that significant fighting took place in southern Masisi and that M23 had taken control of several key positions near the triborder area between Kalehe district in South Kivu and Masisi and Walikale districts.[39] This reportedly included Mitimingi, which is in a remote area in the Katoyi sector in southern Masisi—about 26 miles southwest of the mining town of Rubaya on local roads.[40] Fighting had reportedly concentrated on Biriko—about 10 miles southwest of Remeka—which is in the Ufamandu first group in Katoyi and the gateway town to the Waloa Loanda group in southeastern Walikale.[41] The Waloa Yungu group is near the border between Masisi and Walikale, its eastern edge touching the Osso Banyungu sector in Masisi. Videos circulated by M23-aligned media sources on September 4 purportedly showed a government helicopter and Congolese government-employed PMCs supplying weapons and provisions to Wazalendo fighters in Kimua in Walikale near the border with Masisi.[42] M23 reportedly repelled Wazalendo fighter attacks on its positions in Miko village, which is reportedly near Katuunda town—about 27 miles southwest of Rubaya—on September 5.[43] M23 had captured Katuunda, Miko, and nearby Chingete village from Wazalendo fighters on August 18, following a Wazalendo offensive in southern Masisi and northern Kalehe.[44] M23 reportedly attacked pro-Congolese government force positions and took control of Kibundi and Mwima, two remote villages in the Katoyi sector in Masisi near the border with Walikale, on September 6.[45] Actualite.cd reported on September 7 that displaced households coming from Masisi, including Ngululu, had been fleeing to Kyumba and Langira villages in Waloa Yungu due to the heightened fighting since September 3.[46] Langira is in a rural area roughly eight miles east of Ntoto on a local road. M23 then reportedly advanced on an axis northeast of Waloa Yungu to capture Ngululu before subsequently taking control of Humura in the Nyamaboko first group in the Osso Banyungu sector in Masisi from FARDC and Wazalendo fighters following heavy fighting on September 6.[47] M23 then used its position in Humura to advance further to Kibahemula and Rutoboko and then another mile to attack Wazalendo fighters in Kishee.[48] Actualite.cd reported that locals in Kyumba and Langira then fled on September 7 amid M23’s advance in the area.[49] M23 reportedly took control of Kazinga town from FARDC and Wazalendo fighters on September 7.[50] Kazinga is in Nyamaboko first, about miles northeast from Ngululu and 13 miles southwest of Masisi town on local roads. Actualite.cd reported that Kazinga eventually fell to M23 after the group had conducted attacks on Wazalendo positions in the town beginning on September 5.[51] Wazalendo fighters reportedly conducted counterattacks and retook control of Rutoboko and Kibahemula from M23 on September 8, however, with Humura remaining under M23 control.[52] Kibahemula and Rutoboko are about two miles west of Humura on a local road. Wazalendo fighters reportedly recaptured additional villages in the area from M23 on September 9, including Mwima and Ngomashi, pushing M23 back toward Ngululu.[53] Ngomashi is about one mile south of Humura on a local road. The FARDC and Wazalendo fighters coming from Waloa Yungu and adjacent Waloa Uroba group reportedly recaptured Humura after conducting counterattacks on M23 and pushed M23 back toward Kazinga on September 10.[54] Wazalendo fighters then reportedly ambushed M23 contingents on the road between Kazinga and Mahanga after Humura had fallen.[55]

M23 made gains toward Pinga town on the RP1030 on northern Masisi’s border with Walikale. CTP reported in early September that significant fighting took place between M23 and Wazalendo fighters in the Kisimba group, which is in a remote area in Walikale about six miles north of Kalembe and 10 miles east of Pinga on the RP1030.[56] Congolese government-aligned sources claimed on social media that FARDC and Wazalendo fighters attacked and clashed with M23 in Malemo and Luola villages on the RP1030 on September 4.[57] Malemo is about 15 miles east of Pinga. Luola is reportedly located in the Banakindi locality in Kisimba near Minjenje, which is about three miles northwest of Malemo on the RP1030. Clashes on the front lines reportedly continued on September 5, as FARDC-Wazalendo fighters reportedly dislodged M23 and captured several positions, including around Mpeti, high ground around Minjenje, and positions above Malemo center, as fighting continued around Malemo.[58] Wazalendo warlord Guidon Muissa reportedly held a local meeting on September 5 after retaking positions around Mpeti.[59] M23 forces reportedly conducted a flanking maneuver on September 6 and dislodged FARDC and Wazalendo elements from positions above Minejnje and Katobi, Burayi, and Malemo, however.[60] Katobi is about two miles west of Mpeti on the RP1030 and the last village on the RP1030 before Pinga. Heavy artillery attacks attributed to M23 on government troops on Minjenje, Katobi, Burayi, and Malemo reportedly forced FARDC-Wazalendo fighters to retreat to Mpeti, which they still controlled despite the M23 maneuver.[61] M23 reportedly received reinforcements that came from Rutshuru district and deployed to Ihula village, which is in Kisimba, in support an offensive Pinga via Mpeti.[62] The FARDC or Congolese government-employed PMCs reportedly conducted an airstrike on M23 positions in Malemo and Luola on September 8 after the rebels had reinforced their positions.[63] Actualite.cd reported that M23 bombed government positions in Minjenje on September 9.[64] Fighting between the two sides reportedly continued around Malemo and Luola on September 10 as the two sides vied for control of key positions.[65] Kanyuka claimed on social media that pro-Congolese government forces conducted attacks on Ihula, Malemo and Minjenje on September 10.[66] M23 then reportedly took control of Minjenje after clashing with FARDC and Wazalendo fighters on September 10.[67] Kivu Morning Post reported that Wazalendo fighters attacked an M23 position in Ihula village in Kisimba on September 11.[68] The Congolese government-aligned media outlet Tazama RDC reported that an M23 contingent coming from the Ikobo group to the north of Kisimba conducted an attack on pro-Congolese government forces on a rural village in Kisimba on September 11 in an attempt to link up with other M23 contingents who had captured Minjenje on September 10.[69]

Fighting reportedly broke out west of Nyabiondo near the RP529 road along western Masisi’s border with Walikale. Actualite.cd reported that Wazalendo fighters conducted attacks on M23 positions in Shango and Mahanga villages in the Butsike locality in the Nyamaboko first group in the Osso Banyungu sector in Masisi on September 5.[70] FARDC and Wazalendo fighters then reportedly clashed with M23 in Mahanga and Buhimba villages near the Masisi-Walikale border on September 8.[71] The two villages are key crossing points between this part of the Masisi-Walikale border. Buhimba is in the Waloa Yungu group in eastern Walikale, around 12 miles west of Nyabiondo in Masisi district on the RP529, whereas Mahanga is situated in the Osso Banyungu sector in Masisi. M23 reportedly received reinforcements in the Luberike group, which is north of Waloa Yungu, around Kashebere and Kibati on the RP529, around September 8.[72] Kashebere and Kibati are about eight and 21 miles west of Nyabiondo, respectively. Actualite.cd reported that clashes resumed around Buhimba and Mahanga on September 10 that Wazalendo fighters coming from Walikale had launched attacks on M23 positions.[73] Kanyuka claimed on social media that government forces conducted attacks on Buhimba on September 10.[74] FARDC and Wazalendo forces then reportedly conducted attacks on M23 in Kibati in Luberike on September 10 and 11 in an attempt to capture the position.[75] M23 has fully controlled Kibati since October 2025. Kanyuka claimed on social media that government forces conducted attacks on Kibati on September 10.[76] Wazalendo fighters reportedly then captured Kibati center from M23 after two days of significant fighting on September 11.[77] The fighting then shifted to and continued in Mahanga for the third straight day, before pro-Congolese government forces reportedly took control of the position on September 11.[78]

Southwest Axis: Bukavu-Kamituga-Shabunda-Kindu

Clashes reportedly continued south of Walungu town in South Kivu. CTP reported previously that fighting between M23 and Wazalendo fighters took place around the Walungu district capital as part of an offensive that Wazalendo fighters had launched in the Walungu highlands in late August.[79] The two sides reportedly clashed in Kaniola between September 6 and 8.[80]

Major Political Developments

PMCs employed by the Congolese government allegedly arrested two FDNB officers in South Kivu and transferred them to Kinshasa, the Congolese capital. CTP reported previously M23 and Rwanda conducted a targeted airstrike on a hotel in Fizi district south of the front lines using a Turkish-made medium-altitude long-endurance attack drone on August 19.[81] Pro-Congolese government forces had been setting conditions for the ongoing Minembwe offensive. SOS Médias Burundi had confirmed in late August initial reporting that the strike had likely targeted several Congolese and Burundian military officials, namely the deputy commander of the FDNB land forces, the FDNB’s operations officer, and an FARDC regional commander, who were using the hotel to prepare new military operations with PMCs in South Kivu but had left the area before the attack.[82] The report also had said that authorities arrested several FDNB and FARDC officers as part of an investigation into a possible intelligence leak.[83] SOS Médias Burundi claimed in an unverified report on September 1 that FDNB Captain Félicien Kanjori and FDNB Major Jérémie Nitunga were among those arrested for allegedly providing target information to enemy forces that led to the August 19 strike.[84] The report cited several sources and local testimonies that said that PMCs—not Wazalendo fighters as originally reported—had arrested Kanjori and Nitunga and transferred them to Kinshasa under the custody of Congolese military intelligence services.[85] Great Lakes Eye cited unidentified sources in unverified reports on September 5 and 9 who echoed this account.[86]

Two separate exchanges of gunfire have reportedly occurred along the Burundi-Rwanda border since late August. SOS Médias Burundi reported on September 8 that Rwandan soldiers reportedly fired upon three Burundian fishermen who had mistakenly crossed the border at the Kanyaru River from Butanyerera province in northern Burundi.[87] The outlet reported that Burundian and Rwandan soldiers then exchanged fire briefly near the Kagera River, which borders northeastern Burundi’s Buhumuza province, on September 5, after Rwandan farmers had reportedly crossed over the border into Burundi.[88] SOS Médias Burundi cited a local administrative source who offered a different account of the September 5 incident, claiming that Burundian soldiers had fired upon a small motorized boat operated by the Rwandan navy after believing that the boat had crossed into Burundi.[89] Military forces from both sides reportedly reinforced their positions along their respective sides of the border following the two incidents.[90] The report said that hundreds of Burundian soldiers and members of the Imbonerakure, civilians of the affiliated youth wing of Burundi’s ruling party, positioned along the Kagera River.[91]

The UN repatriated over 100 members of the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda (FDLR). The UN’s mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) said on social media that MONUSCO repatriated 120 FDLR members and their dependents to the Mutobo demobilization center in northwestern Rwanda in coordination with the Congolese and Rwandan governments on September 8.[92]

Rwanda claimed that it repatriated around 300 refugees from the DRC. Rwanda’s Ministry in charge of Emergency Management said on social media on September 9 that Rwanda had received 366 Rwandan refugees from the DRC via Goma, Bukavu, and Kamanyola.[93] The last reported repatriation was in early August.[94] At least 3,000 refugees have returned to Rwanda this year, and Rwanda and the DRC reportedly agreed to repatriate 10,000 refugees in the second half of 2026 in line with the Washington Peace Accords.[95]

Officials in Republic of the Congo President Denis Sassou Nguesso’s office are reportedly concerned about DRC state support to a former Rwandan diplomat who served under the regime of former Rwandan President Juvénal Habyarimana. Sassou Nguesso arrived in Paris for a working visit at the invitation of French President Emmaneul Macron on September 8.[96] The French investigative outlet Africa Intelligence reported on September 10 that several security officials close to Sassou Nguesso raised concerns with French officials over alleged close ties between members of Tshisekedi’s inner circle and figures from the Rwandan opposition in exile and others linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide.[97] Sassou Nguesso has good relations with both the DRC and Rwanda. The report said that Congolese officials’ concerns centered on Fabien Singaye, a former official under the Habyarimana regime and the son-in-law to Félicien Kabuga, who helped orchestrate and finance the genocide.[98] Africa Intelligence reported that Singaye is being “directly looked after” by Tshisekedi’s office, which has provided him a government-registered vehicle for his use in Kinshasa.[99]

Significant US-Backed Economic Activity

Nothing significant to report.

Data Cutoff: September 3, at 12 P.M. EST**

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Read CTP’s latest analysis on the war in the eastern DRC in the weekly Africa File here. 

Key Takeaway: Pro-Congolese government forces continued their offensive on M23-allied fighters in the South Kivu highlands. Fighting continued in southern Masisi district in North Kivu as M23 expanded its territorial control. Pro-Congolese government forces launched attacks on M23 on the front line on the RN2 in Mwenga district in South Kivu. DRC President Félix Tshisekedi traveled to Israel to strength and expand bilateral relations.

Kinetic Activity in Rutshuru & Eastern Masisi Districts

Nothing significant to report.

Northern Axis: Lubero-Butembo-Beni-Bunia

Nothing significant to report.

Southern Axis: Bukavu-Uvira-Baraka-Kalemie

Pro-Congolese government forces continued their offensive on M23-allied Twirwaneho fighters in the South Kivu highlands. CTP reported in late August that pro-Congolese government forces continued their offensive that they had launched on August 17 and conducted numerous attacks on M23-allied Twirwaneho fighter and possible Red–Tabara positions on several axes near Minembwe, including Point Zéro, which is an operationally significant hilltop about 15 miles east of Minembwe.[1] Clashes between the Congolese army (FARDC) and pro-Congolese government Wazalendo fighters and Twirwaneho-Red–Tabara fighters reportedly continued at Point Zéro on August 28, with both sides reportedly using drones.[2] Twirwaneho’s spokesperson, Fidèle Rugabo, claimed on social media on August 28 that pro-Congolese government forces coming from the Kabanja area—20 miles south of Minembwe—conducted attacks on Biziba village, which is about five miles south of Minembwe.[3] The M23-aligned investigative outlet Great Lakes Eye claimed in a report that an FARDC special force battalion moved toward Point Zéro on August 29.[4] Congolese government-aligned sources claimed on social media on August 29 that pro-Congolese government forces conducted attacks on rebel coalition positions south of Minembwe in Biziba, Gipimo, and Natulonge villages in the Basimunyaka-Sud group in the Lulenge sector.[5] Peter Bishenga, a Twirwaneho source and possible militant, claimed on social media on August 29 that fighters from the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda (FDLR), Wazalendo fighters, and fighters from the P5 coalition destroyed a checkpoint on the Lulenge sector axis, likely south of Minembwe.[6] Lawrence Kanyuka, M23’s spokesperson, and a Twirwaneho source claimed on social media that pro-Congolese government forces conducted ground attacks on Biziba and drone attacks on Point Zéro on August 29.[7] The two sides reportedly continued clashing at Point Zéro on August 29.[8] The Congolese-government aligned outlet Tazama RDC reported that rebel forces attacked FARDC and Wazalendo fighters in Mulima near Point Zéro on August 29.[9] Congolese government-aligned sources claimed that pro-Congolese government forces then captured four villages in the Basimunyaka-Sud group—Natulonge, Kamimbi, Nagishashu, and Irumba—as early as August 29 and advanced north toward Kabingo and Minembwe.[10] One M23-aligned source claimed on social media on August 29 that Twirwaneho captured Kiribandagobe village in the adjacent Ngandja sector and disputed on August 30 that pro-Congolese government forces had major significant gains in the ongoing fighting.[11] Bishenga claimed on social media that FDLR and Wazalendo fighters attacked Kipupu village, which is about 15 miles north of Mikenge on the RP527, on August 30.[12] Congolese government-aligned sources claimed on August 30 that pro-Congolese government forces then captured a Twirwaneho base at Tulunga village.[13] CTP is unable to verify the precise location of Tulunga. Twirwaneho sources claimed on social media on August 30 that Twirwaneho repelled pro-Congolese government attacks on Gipimo, likely south of Minembwe.[14] Clashes reportedly continued at Karongozi in Lulenge on August 31.[15] Kanyuka and M23-aligned sources claimed on social media that pro-Congolese government forces conducted mortar attacks on Point Zéro and drone attacks on Nyaruhinga and Mukoko villages near Minembwe on August 31.[16] Pro-Congolese government forces reportedly conducted significant drone attacks on Point Zéro on August 31 that caused mass displacements.[17] The Congolese media outlet Radio Maendeleo cited local sources who said that pro-Congolese government forces bombed Twirwaneho positions at Point Zéro, Mukoko, and Nyaruhinga on August 31.[18] Radio Maendeleo reported and Rugabo claimed on social media on August 31 that Twirwaneho repelled several pro-Congolese government attacks on several axes around Minembwe.[19] The FARDC claimed on September 1 that it had recaptured numerous localities in the highlands and midlands and killed 23 rebels during operations against the rebel coalition.[20] Twirwaneho sources claimed on social media that pro-Congolese government forces attacked Kivumu village, which is west of Minembwe, on September 2, after fighting reportedly broke out in the area.[21] Rugabo and one M23-aligned source claimed on social media on September 2 that rebel forces had repelled the attacks on Kivumu and other attacks in Lulenge.[22] Kanyuka claimed on social media that pro-Congolese government forces conducted ground attacks on Point Zéro on September 2.[23] The two sides then reportedly clashed near Agùlé village near Point Zéro on September 2 and 3.[24]

Pro-Congolese government forces reportedly recaptured several positions from Twirwaneho in the Uvira district midlands. The FARDC had reportedly reinforced its positions in the midlands after Twirwaneho had captured numerous villages in late August.[25] Great Lakes Eye claimed that the FARDC reinforced positions across Uvira district in the midlands on August 28 and 29.[26] Congolese government-aligned sources claimed on August 30 that pro-Congolese government forces captured Marimba from Twirwaneho.[27] Marimba is on the Bijombo group, roughly 17 miles southwest of Uvira town on a local road. One Twirwaneho source claimed on social media on August 31 that Twirwaneho repelled pro-Congolese government force attacks on Marimba.[28] Pro-Congolese government forces reportedly used drones and heavy weaponry to dislodge Twirwaneho fighters and recapture Malimba, Rubarati, Masango, Manguda, and Ruhuha on August 31, however.[29] Rubarati is roughly 13 miles west of Uvira town. The FARDC claimed that it killed 15 Twirwaneho fighters during the operation to retake these villages.[30]

Pro-Congolese government forces are allegedly receiving significant support from private military contractors (PMCs) and the Burundian army (FDNB) in the South Kivu highlands. Videos on social media posted by M23-aligned media sources on August 31 purportedly showed columns of FDNB reinforcements moving into the highlands and midlands of South Kivu in late August.[31] Great Lakes Eye claimed on September 1 that the number of PMCs deployed for the Minembwe offensive and linked to Erik Prince, an American citizen and PMC with ties to US President Donald Trump’s administration, increased from 10 to roughly 35 in late August.[32] The report said that the PMCs were operating in Lusuku and Abala villages south of Point Zéro alongside an FARDC special force battalion.[33] The report said that the PMCs are assisting DRC coalition forces with air defense support and drone operations.[34] One Congolese government-aligned source posted a photo on social media on September 3 purportedly showing two Prince-linked PMCs posing for a picture with pro-Congolese government forces in Fizi.[35]

Clashes broke out near the Kavumu airport in Kabare district north of Bukavu in South Kivu. The Congolese media outlet Radio Maendeleo reported that clashes took place in Kahungu, which is near Tshibati, and Mulangala villages near the edge of the Kahuzi-Biega National Park around September 1.[36] Tshibati and Mulangala are both about five miles northwest of the Kavumu airport on the RN2.

M23 reportedly continued to consolidate control over parts of Kalehe district in northern South Kivu. CTP reported on August 21 that M23 had launched a counteroffensive against pro-Congolese government forces in the Ziralo group in the Buhavu chiefdom and in the Buloho chiefdom in northern Kalehe near the border with North Kivu.[37] Radio Maendeleo reported on August 28 that clashes between Wazalendo and M23 fighters had taken place in Chibwisa, Kamatembe, and Kalao villages in the Mbinga-Sud and Mubugu groups in Buloho and Buhavu since August 22.[38] Kamatembe is roughly four miles southwest of Tushunguti, the Ziralo group capital, on local roads. Kanyuka claimed that pro-Congolese government forces conducted an attack on Kananu village in Kalehe on August 29.[39] CTP is unable to verify the precise location of Kananu. One Congolese government-aligned source said on social media on August 29 that the FARDC and Wazalendo fighters had attacked M23 in Kananu.[40] M23-aligned media sources claimed on social media on September 2 that the group dislodged pro-Congolese government forces from Tushunguti after three days of clashes.[41] M23-aligned sources claimed that the group had clashed with elements of the FARDC in the area who formed the special battalion that had deployed to North Kivu in March under the Washington Peace Accords.[42] The two sides then reportedly clashed in Chinono village on the border between the Ziralo and Mubuku groups in Buhavu on September 3.[43]

Northwest Axis: Masisi-Walikale-Lubutu-Kisangani

Fighting continued in southern Masisi district in North Kivu as M23 expanded its territorial control. CTP reported in late August that M23 continued to consolidate control over southern Masisi district following a pro-Congolese government offensive in mid-August.[44] Clashes reportedly broke out in Buruso in the Ufamandu first group and nearby Biriko village in the Waloa Loanda group in Walikale district on August 29, as M23 continued to expand its control in the area.[45] Biriko is near the triborder area between Masisi and Walikale in North Kivu and Kalehe district in South Kivu, roughly 10 miles southwest of Remeka village in Masisi on a local road. Tazama RDC claimed that M23 recaptured Mitimingi village in the Katoyi sector on August 29, reportedly bringing most of Katoyi—15 out of 19 village groups—under M23 control.[46] Mitimingi is in a remote area in Katoyi, about 26 miles southwest of the mining town of Rubaya on local roads. Pro-Congolese government forces reportedly shot down an M23 drone further north over Kasheke village in the Nyamaboko first group in the Osso Banyungu sector in Masisi on August 29.[47] Kasheke is about 20 miles west of Rubaya on local roads. Congolese government-aligned sources claimed on social media that Wazalendo fighters regained control of Busoro in Ufamandu after clashes with M23 on August 30.[48]

Fighting continued north of the RP1030 in Walikale district in North Kivu. CTP reported in late August that M23 had attacked and clashed with Wazalendo fighters in the Kisimba group, which is in a remote area about six miles north of Kalembe and 10 miles east of Pinga in Walikale.[49] The Congolese media outlet Actualite.cd reported that FARDC and Wazalendo fighters repelled M23 attacks on Ihula village, which is a few miles north of Kalembe on the RP1030 in Masisi, on August 27 and stopped M23 fighters from advancing toward Luola and then recapturing Minjenje and Mpeti villages on the RP1030.[50] Actualite.cd reported that FARDC-Wazalendo forces also repelled a separate M23 attempt to advance toward the Nkingwe bridge, which is close to the Minjenje bridge between Minjenje and Malemo on the RP1030, around August 27 and 28.[51] Actualite.cd cited local reports that claimed that M23 had captured high ground in areas near the RP1030, however.[52] Congolese government-aligned sources reported on August 30 that Willy Mishiki, a national deputy for Walikale and a staunch advocate of the Wazalendo, had been present on the front lines in Walikale for three days.[53] Kanyuka claimed on social media that Wazalendo fighters and elements of the FDLR conducted an attack on Kivuye village in Masisi on August 30.[54] Kivuye is about 13 miles southwest of Kashuga on the RP1030. Actualite.cd reported that FARDC and Wazalendo fighters then repelled an M23 attack coming from Rusmambu in the Ikobo group to the north on Chanjikiro and Ngambi villages in the Kisimba group on August 31.[55] Ngambi is in a remote area near the Oso river and the Kisimba-Ikobo Primate Reserve to the north. Actualite.cd reported that FARDC-Wazalendo fighters repelled another M23 attack on Nkingwe near Malemo on the RP1030 on September 1.[56] Congolese government-aligned media sources claimed on September 1 that Mishiki launched a new armed group in Walikale.[57] The Wazalendo’s national coordination body in Kinshasa had disavowed Mishiki in mid-March 2026.[58] Actualite.cd reported on September 2 that local populations in Minjenje, Mpeti and Mera in Kisimba had fled their villages since August 30 due to the significant fighting between the two sides and M23 artillery attacks on FARDC and Wazalendo positions in the area.[59] Actualite.cd reported separately that FARDC-Wazalendo fighters and M23 then clashed in Malemo and two other nearby villages on September 2 and 3 as part of an FARDC-Wazalendo counteroffensive.[60]

Southwest Axis: Bukavu-Kamituga-Shabunda-Kindu

Pro-Congolese government forces launched attacks on M23 on the front line on the RN2 in Mwenga district in South Kivu. FARDC, Wazalendo, and FDNB troops reportedly attacked M23 Kasika, Kaulile, and Kidasa villages in the Luindi chiefdom using heavy artillery on August 31.[61] The Luindi chiefdom is on the northern end of the Itombwe Mountains and borders the RN5 highway to the east in northern Mwenga. Kasika, which is the seat of Luindi that M23 had captured in late November 2025, is about 14 miles north of the government-controlled town of Mwenga on the RN2. Fighting reportedly continued in Luindi, including in Ngenga—about a mile toward Mwenga town from Kidasa—on September 1, as Congolese government-aligned and M23-aligned sources offered differing accounts of the control of terrain.[62]

Clashes reportedly continued in areas around the Walungu district capital in South Kivu. CTP reported in late August that Wazalendo fighters continued their offensive against M23 in the Walungu highlands.[63] M23 reportedly reasserted control over Nzibira and Luntukulu, however, and advanced as far as Chulwe and Lubimbe on the RP503 after repelling Wazalendo attacks in areas around Luntukulu and Nzibira on August 27.[64] Chulwe is about 12 miles west of Nzibira on the RP503. Lubimbe is the last village on the RP503 in Walungu before Shabunda district to the west. Radio Maendeleo reported on August 29 that M23 reinforced its positions in areas around Luntukulu, Chulwe, and Lubimbe, as fighting reportedly continued.[65] One M23-aligned source claimed on social media on August 31 that FARDC and Wazalendo troops clashed in Lubimbe.[66] Congolese government-aligned sources claimed on social media on September 1 that pro-Congolese government forces were holding their positions near Nzibira.[67]

Major Political Developments

DRC President Félix Tshisekedi traveled to Israel to strength and expand bilateral relations. Tshisekedi made a three-day working visit to Israel at the invitation of Israeli President Isaac Herzog between August 31 and September 2.[68] This is Tshisekedi’s second visit to Israel as president since October 2021. Herzog had visited Kinshasa, the Congolese capital, in November 2025. Tshisekedi’s office said on August 31 that the discussions would focus on “security, defense, agriculture, infrastructure, energy and advanced technology.”[69] Thérèse Wagner, the Congolese foreign minister, arrived in Tel Aviv on September 1.[70] Wagner had signed two memoranda of understanding on diplomatic cooperation with the Israeli foreign minister during an official visit to Jerusalem in late July.[71] Wagner met with the Israeli foreign minister on September 1.[72] Tshisekedi met with Herzog and Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli Prime Minister, in Jerusalem on September 1.[73] Netanyahu’s office said on social media that Tshisekedi and Netanyahu agreed to strengthen bilateral security and economic ties.[74] Tshisekedi said that he also discussed the security and humanitarian situation in the eastern DRC during his visit.[75] Congolese and Israeli delegations then convened for an expanded meeting to discuss areas of mutual interest and cooperation.[76] Wagner met with the speaker of Israel’s parliament on September 2.[77] The Congolese government said on September 3 that it would move its embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, joining a small group of countries, including the United States.[78] Israel also said that it would open an embassy in Kinshasa.[79]

The head of the UN’s mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) and the UN’s Great Lakes envoy concluded a regional visit to Burundi, Uganda, and Rwanda. MONUSCO head James Swan and UN envoy Huang Xia conducted the roughly weeklong tour between late August and early September.[80] CTP reported previously that Swan and Xia met with Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye in Burundi on August 26.[81] Swan and Xia met with several senior Rwandan officials, including Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe, in Kigali, the Rwandan capital, on September 1.[82] MONUSCO said that Swan briefed officials at each stop on MONUSCO’s efforts to support regional peace processes, including through its technical and logistical support to the ceasefire mechanism led by the International Conference on the Great Lakes region under the Doha process, and MONUSCO’s support for the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration of FDLR fighters under the Washington Peace Accords.[83]

Tanzania arrested and extradited a pro-M23 social media influencer to Kinshasa. Tshisekedi had traveled to Zanzibar to meet with Tanzanian President Samia Hassan and strengthen security and economic cooperation on August 17 and 18.[84] Tanzanian authorities arrested Denise Dusauchoy in western Tanzania on August 30 pursuant to an arrest warrant issued by the Congolese justice ministry.[85] Dusauchoy is a Congolese journalist and influencer who was formerly pro-government but later became publicly aligned with and supportive of M23. The Congolese justice ministry announced her arrest in a statement on August 31 and said that the arrest occurred due to close cooperation between the DRC and Tanzania and as part of international justice efforts.[86] Authorities then reportedly extradited her overnight to Kinshasa aboard a private aircraft on August 31.[87] M23-aligned journalist Steve Wembi reported on August 31 that Desiré-Cashmir Eberande Kolongele, Tshisekedi’s national security adviser, was on board the plane that transferred Dusauchoy to Kinshasa.[88] Patrick Muyaya, the Congolese communications minister, said on September 1 that Dusauchoy’s arrest would be the “first in a long list.”[89] French state media cited a government source on September 1 who said that Congolese authorities have issued arrest warrants for other figures close to M23 that are not yet public.[90] Dusauchoy appeared before the public prosecutor in Kinshasa on September 2.[91]

M23 launched parallel banking initiatives in Rutshuru and Masisi districts in North Kivu. M23 formally launched new local branches or “one-stop service centers” for the Caisse générale d’epargne du Congo (CADECO), a public financial institution that the group had reopened in early April 2025, in Kiwanja town in Rutshuru and Minova town in Masisi on August 31.[92] The group has taken steps to set up alternative banking and payment systems since its early 2025 offensive. The Central Bank of Congo had severed all ties with local banks and microfinance institutions in M23-controlled areas in early 2025, which has severely disrupted economic activity. M23 has faced challenges in implementing its broader economic agenda despite relaunching CADECO, largely due to measures taken by the Central Bank of Congo and M23’s status as an armed rebellion and internationally sanctioned nonstate entity.[93]

M23 established two new parallel governance structures. M23 released a statement on August 28 that said it would establish a quartermaster bureau under M23’s political branch, given the need to “remedy the absence of an organizational framework for the day-to-day management of logistical matters” within M23.[94] The statement said that the new service would be responsible for managing M23’s property and equipment.[95] M23 then released a separate statement on August 28 that said it would establish a special bureau for working with humanitarian organizations and managing social and educational projects in M23-controlled areas.[96]

Significant US-Backed Economic Activity

Nothing significant to report.

Data Cutoff: August 28, 2026, at 10 A.M. EST

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Key Takeaway: The Congolese government and M23 convened for another round of peace talks in Switzerland and discussed ways to jumpstart progress on the November 2025 framework agreement. Significant fighting between M23-allied fighters and pro-Congolese government forces continued in the Fizi and Uvira highlands in South Kivu. DRC coalition forces reportedly shot down an aircraft over Minembwe town. The Congolese government severed ties with higher education and academic institutions under M23 control.

Kinetic Activity in Rutshuru & Eastern Masisi Districts

Armed actors attacked M23 in eastern Rutshuru district in North Kivu. The Congolese media outlet Radio Okapi reported that armed men conducted several attacks on civilians in the Kisigari and Binza groups in the Bwisha chiefdom in eastern Rutshuru on August 23.[1] The outlet reported that the armed men also attacked M23 positions in Nkwenda and Kinyandoni villages in the Binza group.[2] Nkwenda and Kinyandoni are about eight and six miles north of Rutshuru town, respectively.

Northern Axis: Lubero-Butembo-Beni-Bunia

Nothing significant to report.

Southern Axis: Bukavu-Uvira-Baraka-Kalemie

Clashes between M23-allied fighters and pro-Congolese government forces continued in the South Kivu highlands. CTP reported previously that pro-Congolese government forces launched an offensive against M23-allied Twirwaneho fighters and possible Red–Tabara militants around Minembwe in mid-August.[3] Fighting reportedly continued between Wazalendo fighters and Twirwaneho and Red–Tabara in two villages east of Minembwe, Abwale and Mbukuma, on August 22.[4] Abwale is about 10 miles south of Point Zéro, an operationally significant hilltop northeast of Minembwe, on the RP527. M23’s spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, claimed on social media that DRC coalition forces conducted airstrikes and drone attacks on Mukoko and Nyamabuguma villages near Minembwe on August 22.[5] Congolese government-aligned sources claimed on social media that a Congolese army (FARDC) drone conducted attacks on Twirwaneho-Red–Tabara positions at Mukoko and Nyamabuguma on August 22.[6] An M23 colonel posted a video on August 22 showing Kanyuka purportedly on the ground in Ruhinamavi, a village near Point Zéro.[7] Kanyuka and Twirwaneho’s spokesperson, Fidèle Rugabo, claimed in a statement on social media that DRC coalition forces attacked Nyaruhinga village near Minembwe and conducted a heavy artillery attack on another remote village on August 24.[8] Congolese government aligned sources reported that fighting continued near Alénge in the Mutambala sector on August 25.[9] Rugabo claimed that DRC coalition forces conducted an attack on Point Zéro on August 25.[10] The FARDC claimed on August 26 that 13 M23-Twirwaneho-Red–Tabara surrendered to the FARDC at Abala, Mulima, and Kimete.[11] Kimete is about 21 miles south of Minembwe. Rugabo posted a picture of Charles Sematama, Twirwaneho’s military commander, on August 26 and claimed that he had arrived in Minembwe.[12] Kanyuka claimed in two statements on social media that DRC coalition forces conducted attacks using heavy artillery and attack drones on Point Zéro, Nyaruhinga, and Mukoko on August 27.[13] Heavy fighting reportedly continued around Point Zéro on August 28, and Kanyuka claimed on social media that DRC coalition forces conducted ground and air attacks using heavy weaponry and attack drones on Point Zéro.[14]

DRC coalition forces reportedly shot down an aircraft over Minembwe. DRC coalition forces reportedly downed a Russian-made Antonov-model cargo plane that was coming from Bukavu using a ground-to-air missile over Gahwela near Minembwe on August 27.[15] M23 and Twirwaneho claimed that the aircraft was transporting medicine and food supplies to Minembwe.[16] The Congolese government’s Fizi administrator and Congolese government-aligned sources claimed that the plane was transporting military supplies and food.[17] Congolese government-aligned sources had previously claimed that an Antonov-model plane had supplied rebel forces in Minembwe in June.[18]

Clashes also took place in the Uvira midlands as Twirwaneho continued capturing additional operationally significant positions. CTP reported previously that Twirwaneho captured Bijobo village near Lemera in the midlands in Uvira district—northeast of Minembwe—near the RN5 after clashes with pro-Congolese government forces on August 18.[19] Congolese government-aligned sources claimed that rebel coalition forces attacked three FARDC-Wazalendo positions near Malimba on the Masango axis on August 23.[20] CTP is unable to verify the precise location of Malimba. The Masango area is roughly 20 miles west of Uvira town. Rugabo and another Twiraneho source claimed on social media on August 23 that the FARDC-Wazalendo and Burundian army (FDNB) troops clashed with two local around groups on the Masango axis.[21] Twirwaneho released a statement on August 23 denouncing DRC coalition attacks on Ruhuha, Rubarati and Marimba in the Bijombo group.[22] Rubarati is roughly 13 miles west of Uvira town. The group also claimed that the FARDC and FDNB reinforced their positions from Fizi toward Mukela village, which may be near Point Zéro.[23] Twirwaneho fighters reportedly regained control of Ruhuha, Rubarati and Marimba after reported clashes with DRC coalition forces on August 23.[24] Independent Burundian media outlet SOS Médias Burundi cited local sources in Masango on August 24 who said that some Twirwaneho fighters who had captured the villages in Bijombo came from several villages south of Masango toward Bijombo-center, including Muranvya.[25] FARDC and Wazalendo fighters reportedly retained control of Masango-center.[26] Rugabo also claimed in his August 23 post that Twirwaneho repelled a Wazalendo attack on Kipupu, which is the capital of Itombwe sector about nine miles north of Mikenge on the RP527.[27] FARDC fighters in Malimba had then reportedly retreated and caused security concerns in Uvira after firing their weapons indiscriminately.[28] Congolese government-aligned sources claimed on August 25 that rebel coalition forces conducted an attack on a Wazalendo position in Nabuzuke and was seeking to advance north toward Katobo in the Bafuliro chiefdom in Uvira.[29] M23-aligned sources claimed on social media that Twirwaneho then captured Masongo-center on August 26, bringing most of Bijombo under rebel control.[30] Twirwaneho released a statement on August 27 claiming that DRC coalition forces deployed additional forces to the Uvira highlands.[31]

New reporting adds detail to a recent drone strike by M23 and Rwanda in South Kivu. CTP reported previously M23 and Rwanda reportedly conducted a targeted airstrike on a hotel using a Turkish-made medium-altitude long-endurance attack drone after pro-Congolese government forces were setting conditions and had launched another offensive on Minembwe town in Fizi district.[32] SOS Médias Burundi confirmed in a report on August 23 that the strike had likely targeted several Congolese and Burundian military officials, namely the deputy commander of the FDNB land forces, the FDNB’s operations officer, and an FARDC regional commander, who were staying at the hotel to prepare new military operations with private military contractors but left the area before the attack.[33] The report also said that authorities arrested several FDNB and FARDC officers as part of an investigation into a possible intelligence leak.[34]

Northwest Axis: Masisi-Walikale-Lubutu-Kisangani

M23 continued to consolidate control over southern Masisi district in North Kivu following a pro-Congolese government offensive in mid-August. CTP reportedly previously that M23 captured several towns after clashes with Wazalendo fighters in southern Masisi.[35] This included the capture of Remeka, which is around 13 miles southwest of the mining town of Rubaya on a local road, on August 20.[36] Rwandan media outlets claimed that M23 captured two additional and likely remote villages in Masisi after clashes with pro-Congolese government forces on August 20.[37] Congolese-government aligned sources confirmed on social media on August 22 that M23 had taken control of Remeka.[38] Radio Okapi reported on August 24 that numerous civilians and their families fled from at least three villages in the Ufamandu 1st group in the Katoyi sector in southern Masisi on August 22 following several days of clashes between M23 and Wazalendo fighters.[39] Congolese government-aligned sources claimed on social media that M23 conducted several attacks on Wazalendo fighters with heavy artillery and drones in Muhayirwa, Bukumbiriri, Nkokwe, and Mulema villages in Katoyi on August 25.[40] Nkokwe is about 12 miles southwest of Rubaya. Kanyuka claimed that DRC coalition forces launched an attack in Gasenyi and Murambi villages in southern Masisi on August 25.[41] M23-aligned sources claimed on social media on August 25 and 26 that M23 administrators had arrived in Remeka.[42] M23 then reportedly captured Katoyi-center on August 25 as clashes continued in the area into August 26.[43] Kanyuka claimed in a statement on social media that DRC coalition forces attacked their positions in Katoyi on August 27.[44] Two Congolese government-aligned media sources claimed that clashes between M23 and Wazalendo fighters continued near Mbaru on August 27.[45]

Wazalendo fighters clashed with M23 north of the RP1030 in Walikale district in North Kivu. CTP reported previously that an M23-aligned self-defense group reportedly repelled a Wazalendo attack on positions near Kanune on August 19.[46] Kanune is around 15 miles northeast of Mpeti in a remote forested area in the Ikobo group in Walikale. Several Congolese-aligned media sources claimed on social media that Wazalendo captured Kanune after clashes with M23 on August 21.[47] The Congolese media outlet Actualite.cd reported that M23 then attacked and clashed with Wazalendo fighters in Rushihe village, which is reportedly near Katobo village—two miles northeast of Ihula village—in the Kisimba group on August 27.[48] Wazalendo fighters had previously repelled an M23 attack on Rushihe in early August.[49]

Southwest Axis: Bukavu-Kamituga-Shabunda-Kindu

Wazalendo fighters continued their offensive against M23 in the Walungu highlands in South Kivu. CTP reported previously that heavy fighting broke out in Walungu and Mwenga districts for the first time since May 2026, with pro-Congolese government forces likely initiating the engagements.[50] Congolese government-aligned media sources claimed on social media on August 21 and 23 that Congolese army (FARDC) special forces were reinforcing their ranks and advancing toward Nzibira and Luntukulu.[51] Nzibira is a major M23-controlled mineral trading hub roughly 20 miles southwest of Walungu town, whereas Luntukulu is about 10 miles south of Nzibira in the Luindi chiefdom in northern Mwenga. The Congolese government-aligned media outlet Tazama RDC claimed on August 23 that M23 attacked Wazalendo positions in Luhago and Chulwe villages in the Luhago group in the Ninjda chiefdom in southern Kabare district.[52] The Luhago group is in a remote area roughly eight miles north of Nzibira in Walungu on a local road. The last reported clash in Luhago was in December 2025.[53] Heavy fighting reportedly continued in Nzibira, Luntukulu, and Luhago on August 27, as Wazalendo fighters continued efforts to try to retake the town from M23.[54] Kanyuka claimed in a statement on social media that DRC coalition forces conducted attacks on M23 positions in Nzibira, Kishadu, and Chulwe on August 27.[55] Kishadu is about six miles west of Nzibira on the RP503.

Major Political Developments

The Congolese government and M23 convened for another round of talks in Switzerland and discussed ways to jumpstart progress on the November 2025 framework agreement. Delegations from the two sides, alongside the African Union (AU) Commission, Qatar, Switzerland, Togo as the AU mediator, and the United States, met in Geneva, Switzerland, from August 17 to 21.[56] French state media reported on August 22 that a new senior US diplomat had replaced the previous representative and was taking part in the talks for the first time.[57] The readout said the parties discussed how to move forward with existing commitments and obligations and how to negotiate the remaining pillars under the framework agreement.[58] French state media reported that the parties also addressed the issues of recent sanctions on M23 and prisoner exchange.[59] The parties agreed to establish a mechanism to review progress and address challenges in implementing the framework agreement.[60] The meetings did not result in any new agreement, but the readout said that the parties developed another roadmap with “sequences and timelines” for talks under the agreement and committed to “flexibility and creativity” within the process.[61] The parties agreed that the sequence in which they will negotiate the pillars does not determine the sequence in which they will be implemented.[62]

The UN facilitated the transfer of Congolese civilians to government-controlled Beni town under the Doha framework. Radio Okapi reported that the UN transferred sixteen civilians to Beni from Goma on August 26.[63] The chief of staff to North Kivu’s military governor said that the transfer was part of commitments made under the Doha framework.[64]

The parties in Genva also welcomed and discussed further steps toward operationalizing the Expanded Joint Verification Mechanism Plus (EJVM+), which carried out its first reconnaissance mission on August 20 ahead of its first verification mission, deployed to Minembwe on August 24.[65] The DRC, Rwanda, and observer nations had discussed deploying the first mission to Minembwe during the sixth Joint Security Coordination Mechanism (JSCM) meeting under the Washington Peace Accords (WPA) in Geneva on August 12 and 13.[66] The French investigative outlet Africa Intelligence reported on August 24 that the EJVM+ could extend its scope to help monitor the WPA.[67] The outlet reported that the parties had discussed Rwanda’s recent withdrawal of 2,500 troops from the eastern DRC at the JSCM meeting.[68] The outlet reported that the parties had first discussed the possibility of expanding the mechanism’ mandate, aided by increased support from the UN, at the sixth Joint Oversight Committee meeting in London, England, in late June.[69]

The Congolese government severed ties with higher education and academic institutions under M23 control. The DRC’s education ministry suspended indefinitely the academic activities of 11 public universities and institutions in Goma and Bukavu in a decree on August 20.[70] The ministry then suspended the salaries of 48 professors, construction managers, assistants, and others in a decree signed on August 21.[71] The Congolese communications ministry issued a press release on August 27 that reaffirmed the measures.[72] The academic year was about to start in early September. Several M23 officials denounced the decrees, and the group said that it would cover the costs and salaries related to the staff and institutions and that classes would continue normally.[73] The University of Goma suspended institutions criticized the decisions on social media on August 26.[74] A youth organization in Bukavu said on August 26 that the decision would affect more than 25,000 students.[75] Several Congolese opposition leaders and other political actors also denounced the decrees.[76]

Angolan President João Loão Lourenço visited Kinshasa, the Congolese capital, and met with DRC President Félix Tshisekedi. Tshisekedi received Lourenço in Kinshasa on August 26.[77] Tshisekedi’s office said that the two met privately and then with their delegations to discuss bilateral cooperation, regional security, and joint projects in the hydrocarbons and electricity sectors.[78]

The head of MONUSCO met with Burundian President in Évariste Ndayishimiye in Gitega, Burundi’s capital. MONUSCO head James Swan and the UN’s Great Lakes envoy, Huang Xia, met with Ndayishimiye in Gitega on August 26.[79] The meeting focused on MONUSCO’s mandate and activities, particularly its support for the International Conference on the Great Lakes-led joint expanded verification mechanisms monitoring the ceasefire in eastern DRC.[80] Swan also met with the Burundian foreign minister.[81]

Significant US-Backed Economic Activity

The Congolese government signed a new major deal to improve the Lobito Corridor. Congolese government officials signed a 30-year, $1.8 billion concession agreement with a Portuguese construction company to upgrade and manage a key railway section between a town on the DRC-Angola border and another town on the DRC-Zambia border during Lourenço’s visit to Kinshasa.[82] The Lobito Corridor links major mining centers in the DRC with Angola’s Atlantic coast to facilitate the export of critical minerals to Western markets. The US Embassy in Kinshasa and the US State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs welcomed the signing of the agreement in statements on social media.[83] The US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) had signed a letter of intent with the Portuguese company that could include up to $1 billion in DFC financing in December 2025.[84]

A US mining company is reportedly seeking additional financing to develop several copper deposits in North Kivu. Africa Intelligence reported on August 26 that US mining company Copper Intelligence has been seeking funding from Gulf states and across Asia since gaining control of several exploration licenses for copper in North Kivu in February 2026.[85] Reuters reported in April that the company had planned to start drilling on deposits around Butembo town in Beni district.[86] Andrew Groves, Copper Intelligence’s chairperson, had told Reuters that Copper Intelligence ⁠intends to sell copper exclusively to the United States.[87] Groves also said that the Congolese and Ugandan armies were helping to coordinate security around Butembo.[88] Africa Intelligence reported that Copper Intelligence is also expanding its copper portfolio into Haut-Katanga, where it is pursuing several exploration and development opportunities.[89]