The last remaining fighters of the AFC/M23 coalition have fully withdrawn from the city of Uvira, marking a major shift in the security landscape of South Kivu province.
The group’s political spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, confirmed the complete pullout on Saturday, stating that all AFC/M23 elements had vacated the city as part of what he described as a strategic decision.
However, the withdrawal was swiftly followed by the immediate takeover of Uvira by the Wazalendo militia, a pro-government armed group that has been active across eastern Congo.
Witnesses reported that Wazalendo fighters entered key parts of the city within hours of the AFC/M23 departure, establishing control over major roads, public buildings, and strategic neighborhoods.
Residents described a tense but relatively calm atmosphere, with many remaining indoors as the new armed presence settled in. Local civil society leaders called for the protection of civilians and urged all armed actors to avoid reprisals and abuses.
Humanitarian organizations are closely monitoring the situation, warning that sudden changes in territorial control often lead to population displacement, looting, and human rights violations.
The Congolese government has yet to issue an official statement on the developments, but security forces are expected to reassess their deployment in and around Uvira.
Uvira, a strategic city near the Burundian border and Lake Tanganyika, has long been a flashpoint in eastern Congo’s protracted conflict.
Analysts say the rapid transition from AFC/M23 control to Wazalendo dominance raises fresh questions about stability, governance, and the future of peace efforts in the region.
More updates are expected as the situation continues to evolve.