Rebels from the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC)/M23 withdrew from several localities in the Plaine de la Rusizi, located in the territory of Uvira, Sud-Kivu, on Monday, May 12, 2026. This movement marks a significant shift in the group's presence in the region, particularly within the Sud-Kivu province. The withdrawal on this specific date from these strategic areas notes a changing dynamic in the ongoing conflict. The AFC/M23 rebels are reportedly heading towards Katogota following their departure from the previously held areas, consolidating their forces in a new location.
Localities Vacated and New Staging Area
The localities definitively vacated by the AFC/M23 rebels include Kabunambo, Sange, Mutarule, Luberizi, Bwegera, Lemera, and Luvungi. These areas, all situated within the Plaine de la Rusizi in the territory of Uvira, Sud-Kivu, had been under the control of the rebel group. Following their departure from these various localities, the rebels are reportedly moving towards Katogota. Residents of Katogota have confirmed the massive arrival of M23 rebels in their community, indicating a significant redeployment of forces. This recent movement follows an earlier withdrawal by the M23 rebels from the city of Uvira on January 18, 2026. Uvira had been occupied by the rebels for over a month before their departure in January, demonstrating a pattern of tactical repositioning. The current redeployment sees the group consolidating its presence in Katogota after vacating the various localities in Sud-Kivu, establishing a new operational base. Katogota was, in fact, a zone already occupied by the rebels as early as December 2025, suggesting a pre-planned strategic consolidation.
Washington Accord and Diplomatic Context
Local sources suggest that the recent withdrawal of AFC/M23 rebels is connected to United States diplomatic pressure, exerted within the framework of commitments established by the Washington Accord. The Washington Accord, a significant diplomatic agreement, was concluded between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (RDC) with the aim of fostering regional stability. This accord was notably signed under the mediation of then-US President Donald Trump, showing the international community's involvement in the region's peace efforts. Burundi also participated in the Washington Accord, with President Évariste Ndayishimiye representing the nation as an observer during the proceedings, noting the regional scope of the agreement.
Despite these diplomatic efforts, tensions persist. Kinshasa continues to accuse Rwanda of providing support to the M23 rebels in the region, a claim that fuels much of the conflict. However, Kigali steadfastly denies these accusations of supporting the M23 rebels, despite reports from United Nations experts indicating otherwise, which often point to Rwandan backing for the group. The ongoing accusations and denials show the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding the M23's activities.
M23 Movement and Regional Dynamics
As the AFC/M23 rebels moved towards Katogota, other rebel groups reportedly took direction towards Kamanyola following recent shifts in control. The broader regional dynamics also involve significant military deployments. Burundi, for instance, deployed over 29,000 soldiers in eastern RDC, operating alongside the FARDC (Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo) and Wazalendo militias. This substantial deployment detail comes from an internal report of the Congolese Ministry of Interior and Security, which was consulted in December 2025, providing a clear picture of the scale of military involvement. Wazalendo militias, however, face accusations of pillaging and destruction of houses belonging to members of the Tutsi community after regaining control of certain areas, raising concerns about human rights and inter-communal relations amidst the conflict.
The M23, which originated as a former Tutsi rebellion, resumed arms at the end of 2021, reigniting hostilities in the eastern RDC. The group controls strategic areas key for regional trade and resources, including the border with Uganda at Bunagana, as well as the important cities of Goma and Bukavu. Additionally, the M23 controls the Rubaya mining site, which is described as one of the most important coltan deposits globally, giving the group significant economic leverage. The M23 movement is now integrated into the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), a broader political-military coalition led by Corneille Nangaa. The AFC advocates for a federal state in the Democratic Republic of Congo, outlining a political objective for its military actions. In a counter-accusation, Rwanda accuses Burundi and the RDC of supporting the FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda), a Rwandan Hutu armed group, further illustrating the intricate web of alliances and rivalries in the Great Lakes region.
Humanitarian Impact and Civilian Flight
Inhabitants of Sange, Luberizi, and Lemera expressed their relief and celebrated the departure of the M23 rebels from their localities on Monday, May 12, 2026, marking a moment of hope for these communities. Concurrently, thousands of civilians are fleeing their villages due to the ongoing hostilities in the region, noting the severe humanitarian impact of the conflict. The displacement of populations shows the urgent need for lasting peace and stability in eastern RDC, as the cycle of violence continues to disrupt lives and livelihoods.
