Columns of Wazalendo fighters have been deployed since the early hours of Saturday morning in the localities of Kavumu and Kabamba, in the Kabare territory (South Kivu, eastern DRC), without any clashes being reported, according to concordant local sources. On Sunday, a viral video filmed locally showed Wazalendo marching towards Kavumu airport.
A reinforcement of the M23 from Bukavu via the lake to recapture the airport and the town of Kavumu.
“Calm reigns again in Kavumu, several bodies of civilians are visible, the airport is once again occupied by M23 elements after the withdrawal of the Wazalendo,” says a journalist.

For the time being, a relative lull has been observed in Kavumu-Centre, now under rebel control. The Wazalendo, who say they are determined to reconquer the town, have retreated to the outskirts of the Kahuzi-Biega national park, according to several local witnesses.

At least 7 people died in the clashes. Five civilians have been formally identified by the villagers of the town. Civil society condemns the fighting in the middle of the town, which only aggravates an already fragile security climate in this part of South Kivu, which has become the scene of recurring clashes since the M23-AFC took Bukavu.

Kavumu has become the epicenter of the clashes, as it gives access to the Kahuzi Biega Park, where the Wazalendo and M23 soldiers can retreat.

Written by Akilimali Chomachoma