AFC/M23 fighters have captured the strategic town of Kipupu, the administrative center of the Itombwe sector in South Kivu’s Mwenga Territory, marking another significant development in the shifting frontlines of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The town fell after intense fighting involving AFC/M23 and its allies, including Twirwaneho fighters, against government-aligned Wazalendo militias. Local residents reported that drones were used during the operation before government-aligned forces withdrew from the trading center.
Kipupu occupies a strategic position in the Hauts Plateaux of South Kivu.
As the administrative headquarters of the Itombwe sector, it sits along the road linking Mikenge to other communities in the highlands, making it an important logistical and commercial hub.
Control of the town strengthens AFC/M23’s foothold following recent advances around Point Zéro and Mikenge.
The capture forms part of a broader military offensive that has reshaped the balance of power in the Minembwe highlands over recent weeks.
Earlier this month, AFC/M23-allied forces announced the capture of Point Zéro, a commanding hill that overlooks key access routes into Minembwe and toward the Fizi lowlands.
Military analysts say control of these elevated positions provides a significant tactical advantage over surrounding areas.
Following the fall of Point Zéro, senior AFC/M23 political and military leaders, including spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka, Deputy Coordinator Bertrand Bisimwa and General Bernard Byamungu, visited the area, signaling the movement’s intention to consolidate its presence in the South Kivu highlands.
The latest advance is expected to further improve movement between Minembwe and surrounding communities, an area that had remained isolated for years because of fighting.
Residents in Minembwe recently reported that the reopening of supply routes had led to a sharp decline in the prices of basic commodities, with traders once again reaching local markets after prolonged blockades.
The fighting around Kipupu has, however, triggered another wave of civilian displacement. Local civil society organizations reported that many families fled toward neighboring villages, fearing continued clashes and possible counteroffensives.
The situation remains fluid. Several days after AFC/M23 entered Kipupu, Congolese government-aligned sources reported that FARDC and Wazalendo fighters had retaken the town following renewed fighting, while AFC/M23-aligned forces reportedly withdrew toward Mikenge.
AFC/M23 has not publicly confirmed losing the town, and independent verification of who currently controls Kipupu remains difficult because of restricted access and the ongoing conflict.
The battle for Kipupu underscores the growing strategic importance of South Kivu’s highlands, where AFC/M23 and its allies have steadily expanded operations beyond their traditional strongholds in North Kivu.
As both sides continue to contest key positions, civilians remain caught between repeated offensives, displacement and an increasingly volatile security environment.