Minembwe: FARDC and allies may clash with M23/Twirwaneho

The fighting in the Minembwe highlands continues to evolve, as reports from the conflict zone indicate that the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), alongside Burundian forces, Wazalendo fighters, and other allied groups, have regrouped after losing control of several areas they previously held.

The same sources indicate that FARDC and its allies have suffered setbacks during intense clashes in several parts of the Minembwe highlands. Areas mentioned include Mikenke, Rwitsankuku, Point Zéro, Gakenke, Kalingi, Gitavi, Bidegu, Kalongi, and other locations reportedly now under the control of MRDP-Twirwaneho in coordination with AFC/M23.

Sources closely monitoring developments in the region report that on Sunday, July 12, 2026, FARDC and its allies deployed a large number of troops to the Nakiheli area after having previously withdrawn from the locality. This comes as MRDP-Twirwaneho, in coordination with AFC/M23, reportedly maintains control over Point Zéro, a strategically important area for military operations in the region.

Some reports suggest that a significant number of FARDC troops and allied forces withdrew toward Baraka and Bibogobogo, where they are said to be regrouping and preparing new military operations aimed at attempting to retake the positions they lost.

In this context, reports from the area indicate that on July 12, 2026, a major deployment of forces, including FARDC soldiers, Burundian troops, Wazalendo fighters, and foreign mercenaries, moved toward Nakiheli.
Meanwhile, other military preparations are also being reported in the region. Sources from Kalemie indicate that around ten semi-rigid military boats have arrived in the area, reportedly intended for possible use by foreign mercenaries in military operations.

These types of boats are known for their high speed, patrol capabilities, rapid response capacity, and ability to support operations on Lake Tanganyika. Some analysts suggest that the arrival of these vessels could be aimed at strengthening military capabilities and expanding operational capacity in the area.

Meanwhile, despite FARDC and its allies continuing to reinforce their positions and prepare further military operations, reports from the battlefield indicate that MRDP-Twirwaneho and AFC/M23 are continuing to expand the areas under their control.