AFC/M23 and Twirwaneho expand territory in Eastern DRC conflict
The war in eastern DRC, now in its fifth year, continues to evolve as the AFC/M23 coalition and MRDP-Twirwaneho expand their positions across North and South Kivu.
According to a July 24, 2026 report by Critical Threats, AFC/M23 has advanced in Masisi, Walikale, and the highlands of South Kivu.
Last week, the group claimed to have recruited and trained over 9,318 new fighters, adding to its estimated 30,000 already active. Gen. Maj. Sultani Makenga, AFC/M23’s commander, urged recruits at Tshanzu camp to join the fight to “liberate the Congolese people” from what he described as poor governance under President Félix Tshisekedi.
On July 25, Twirwaneho spokesperson Col. Kamasa Ndakize Welcome announced the capture of Kipupu in Mwenga territory. The following day, Col. Fidèle Rugabo confirmed their presence in the area, promising that the entire Itombwe sector would soon fall under their control.
Meanwhile, clashes between AFC/M23 and Wazalendo militias backed by the Congolese army intensified in Masisi and Walikale. Despite repeated offensives, Wazalendo has struggled to reclaim territory, often losing ground in the process.
The final stage of the conflict update was marked by shortened operations due to wildfires in Gironde and Landes.
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