FARDC-Wazalendo Retake Kibati and Milonge, AFC/M23 Holds Muhanga Heights

A precarious calm settled over Kibati, Milonge and Muhanga in Walikale's Luberike grouping on Monday, Sept 14, a day after violent clashes there between FARDC-Wazalendo forces and AFC/M23 rebels. Administrative sources said FARDC and Wazalendo fighters regained control of the Kibati and Milonge town centers, while AFC/M23 remained entrenched on Mount Muhanga, a position considered strategically important overlooking the area. The human and material toll from the fighting remained unknown at this stage. Nearby Chanjikiro and Buhimba (Waloa Yungu grouping) also saw a fragile calm after two days of parallel clashes. Traffic on the Kashebere-Mungazi axis stayed suspended, and residents feared renewed fighting given the volatile situation.