According to local authorities, the rebels have left several areas of the Ruzizi Plain and the Lemera Plateaus. The localities affected include Kabunambo, Sange, Nyakabere 1 and 2, Mutarule, Luberizi and Bwegera.

The administrator of the Uvira territory, Jean de Dieu Mabiswa Selemani, confirms this movement, which he attributes to diplomatic pressure exerted on the armed group.

“The movement has been significant since yesterday. They have left Kabunambo, the town of Sange, Nyakabere 1 and 2, Mutarule, Luberizi and Bwegera. But they are still visible in Luvungi,” he said.

Whilst the rebel movement has provided no information regarding this latest withdrawal, which took place two months after another withdrawal—this time in the Lubero territory, in the neighboring province of North Kivu; multiple sources indicate that the AFC/M23’s withdrawal from these areas is taking place against a backdrop of relentless diplomatic pressure from the United States, which is demanding that the rebels return to the positions they held prior to the ratification of the Washington Agreement between the DRC and Rwanda on 4 December 2025.

Meanwhile, the FARDC, supported by Wazalendo fighters, are continuing their gradual redeployment in these areas. According to an army statement, positions are currently being reinforced in Mutarule in order to protect the local population and defend the integrity of Congolese territory.

According to information provided by Reagan Mbuyi Kalonji, spokesperson for Operation Sukola 2 South-Kivu and the point of contact on this security situation, Congolese troops have notably retaken positions in Mutarule, in Uvira territory, following the withdrawal of armed groups from Sange to Bwegera.

On the ground, however, the situation remains a cause for concern. Local sources report that traffic on the Bukavu-Uvira road has been at a standstill since Monday, a direct consequence of the ongoing insecurity and military movements observed in the region.

Located on the border between the DRC, Rwanda and Burundi, the Ruzizi Plain remains one of the key flashpoints in the conflict ravaging the east of the country, due to its geostrategic importance and its proximity to regional borders. Whilst the FARDC consolidate their positions, local populations remain hopeful of a lasting return to stability.

Written by Akilimali Chomachoma