AFC/M23 capture Kiliba, key access point to Uvira

The AFC/M23 rebel coalition fighting the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has captured the town of Kiliba, a key entry point to the city of Uvira in South Kivu Province. Kiliba lies in Uvira territory, about 20 kilometers from Uvira city. Rebel forces have continued their advance since fighting erupted in the Ruzizi Valley early last week, pushing back government troops and their allied forces from several areas. AFC/M23 has taken control of Katogota, Rurambo, Luberizi, Luvungi, Mutalule, Bwegera, Nyakabere, and Sange. Before entering Kiliba on the afternoon of December 9, 202

The AFC/M23 rebel coalition fighting the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has captured the town of Kiliba, a key entry point to the city of Uvira in South Kivu Province. Kiliba lies in Uvira territory, about 20 kilometers from Uvira city. Rebel forces have continued their advance since fighting erupted in the Ruzizi Valley early last week, pushing back government troops and their allied forces from several areas. AFC/M23 has taken control of Katogota, Rurambo, Luberizi, Luvungi, Mutalule, Bwegera, Nyakabere, and Sange. Before entering Kiliba on the afternoon of December 9, 2025, the group captured the nearby town of Runingo. Panic spread in Uvira even before the fall of Kiliba, as residents reported gunfire believed to have come from members of the Wazalendo militia coalition. The gunfire led to the closure of businesses and schools over security concerns. Reports from South Kivu indicate that some Burundian soldiers were seen withdrawing from areas recently seized by AFC/M23, including Runingo, returning to Burundi after clashes with the rebels. On December 8, there were also reports of a large-scale retreat involving Burundian forces, Congolese government soldiers, and Wazalendo fighters following the loss of Sange.