The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, specifically the high and middle plateaus of Fizi territory in Sud-Kivu province, is currently gripped by fierce clashes. These confrontations pit the AFC/M23-Twirwaneho rebel coalition, which Kinshasa asserts receives backing from the Rwandan army, against the FARDC-Wazalendo coalition, reportedly supported by the Burundian military.

While both warring factions declare significant military gains, the local population’s primary concern revolves around the heavy militarization of Baraka and Fizi-Centre. These two strategically vital locations are witnessing increasing disruptions to daily life, fueling widespread anxiety among residents.

A strategic flashpoint in the conflict

On the ground, rebels claim to have advanced from Mulima village to the “Point Zéro” sector, heading towards Mukera. However, the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) refute this, stating they have, in fact, recaptured several areas and pushed the combatants further south.

Beyond these conflicting military statements, the stakes are undeniably strategic. Baraka, situated on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, serves as Fizi territory’s main administrative hub. This town provides a crucial link between Uvira territory to the north and Tanganyika province to the south.

Following an attack on Uvira by AFC/M23 rebels and their subsequent retreat northwards, Baraka has emerged as a critical logistical point for both civilian and military supplies. Its aerodrome and ports facilitate the transport of reinforcements across Lake Tanganyika. Meanwhile, Fizi-Centre acts as a key access route to the Minembwe Highlands, as well as to the provinces of Maniema and Tanganyika.

Residents gripped by fear

In this government-controlled region, residents now endure constant gunfire and explosions. The almost nightly sound of shots has triggered widespread panic. Businesses operate on a reduced schedule, opening around 9 AM and closing by 5 PM.

“There are many soldiers in the town; they have come down from the mountains. Every evening, activities abruptly cease. Bullets crackle in all directions… Recently, a drone-dropped bomb injured people. We live in insecurity, and it worries us, but we believe our government will find a solution,” recounted Justin, a Fizi resident.

Army pledges to restore control

In response to the deteriorating security situation, the FARDC announced a new offensive aimed at reclaiming villages that fell under rebel control in the highlands of Fizi, Uvira, and Mwenga. This area is notoriously difficult to access, with telecommunication networks remaining severely limited.

“To the populations of Fizi, Mwenga, Uvira, and all of Sud-Kivu, the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo extend a message of confidence and reassurance. We assure you that all operational measures are being taken to ensure your protection, continue the reconquest, and progressively restore state authority across every part of the national territory,” affirmed Lieutenant Reagan Mbuyi Kalonji, spokesperson for Operation Sukola 2 Sud-Sud-Kivu.

Human rights defenders under pressure

Civil society organizations, however, are reporting a rising climate of intimidation. According to several human rights defenders, activists are increasingly becoming victims of arbitrary arrests, detentions, and abductions.

One anonymous activist stated: “Human rights defenders face death threats, arbitrary arrests, and various forms of intimidation. They are often wrongly associated with allies of the AFC/M23 rebel movement. We urge Congolese authorities to guarantee our safety and cease all forms of intimidation against us, as we are not parties to the armed conflict.”

On the ground, fighting persists with neither side gaining a decisive upper hand. The AFC/M23-Twirwaneho and the FARDC, supported by the Wazalendo, continue to accuse each other of using drones to bombard densely populated villages in the Minembwe region.

As these clashes drag on, residents of Fizi and Baraka dread a further deterioration of the security situation and urgently appeal for a lasting return to peace.