Masisi conflict causes civilian deaths and mass displacement

Escalating clashes between the AFC/M23 rebels, the FARDC, and Wazalendo groups in the Masisi territory of North Kivu have resulted in significant civilian casualties and a massive humanitarian crisis.

Local civil society organizations report that recent fighting, including drone strikes and stray gunfire, has killed several civilians, including a woman and a child in the Ufamandu II grouping. Other reports indicate at least eight deaths in Burungu and multiple casualties in Botoyi. These hostilities have disrupted schooling and caused widespread population displacement.

In the Kirotshe health zone, approximately 24,612 people—representing 4,102 households—have recently fled to areas such as Bulengero and Katovu due to combat in villages like Remeka and Katuunda. This influx has strained local resources, leading to shortages of food, water, and shelter. Furthermore, a cholera epidemic has been reported in the region, with dozens of cases, including young children, admitted to health centers. Humanitarian agencies are calling for urgent multisectoral assessments to address critical needs in food security, sanitation, and healthcare.