OVIERA, Democratic Republic of Congo – Intense fighting erupted early Saturday morning between the Congolese army (FARDC) and the M23 rebel group in several villages surrounding the strategically important city of Oviera, in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Local sources confirmed the outbreak of hostilities, which involve the M23, allegedly backed by Rwanda, and Congolese troops supported by allied militias loyal to Kinshasa.
The eastern DRC, bordering Rwanda and rich in natural resources, has been plagued by violence for over three decades. Tensions have escalated significantly since 2021, with the resurgence of the M23 as a major armed actor.
The anti-government group briefly seized control of Goma and Bukavu, the largest cities in eastern DRC, in early 2025. Last December, they launched a fresh offensive in the South Kivu province, capturing Oviera and territories along the border with Burundi. This occurred despite a peace accord signed between Kinshasa and Kigali in Washington, under the auspices of then US President Donald Trump.
Reports from the ground indicate heavy fighting. Kelvin Buijga, coordinator of the ‘New Civil Society of Oviera’ association, stated that clashes began around 3:00 AM local time, involving direct confrontations between M23 rebels, Wazalendo pro-government militias, and FARDC units. The fighting has spread to areas including Kashumbe, Lubanda, Musingoi, Katongo, and Kigongo, approximately ten kilometers from the center of Oviera. The sound of gunfire continues to echo within the city, according to residents.
A resident of Kigongo confirmed the renewed intensity of the clashes on Saturday morning, reporting explosions and heavy gunfire originating from multiple directions. The Congolese army spokesperson in the region, Lieutenant Colonel Reagan Mboy Kalonji, confirmed the ongoing clashes.
