Fighters from the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group have withdrawn from several strategic areas in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, according to local officials, military sources, and residents, in a move that comes amid renewed international pressure to uphold a ceasefire agreement. The withdrawal affects territories north of the city of Uvira in South Kivu province, including the important trading town of Sange, located about 30 kilometres from Uvira near the Burundi border. Residents and officials said pro-government militias known locally as Wazalendo fighters moved into Sange shortly after M23 forces pulled out. South Kivu regional military spokesperson Lieutenant Reagan Mbuyi confirmed that the rebels had retreated from Sange and nearby locations including Kabunambo, Mutarule, and Bwegera.
An M23 source also confirmed the withdrawal but stated that the group would maintain control of Kamanyola, a strategic town near the borders of DR Congo, Rwanda, and Burundi. The source said the rebels were returning to positions held before their recent advance toward Uvira. The M23 launched a major offensive toward Uvira in December despite ongoing peace negotiations between DR Congo and Rwanda under United States mediation. The armed group reportedly pulled back in January following diplomatic pressure from Washington, which renewed calls last week for all parties to respect the ceasefire agreement.
Locals in Sange described scenes of celebration after the rebel withdrawal, with residents, schoolchildren, and traders returning to the streets. Eastern DR Congo has faced more than three decades of conflict involving numerous armed groups competing for influence and control over the region’s vast mineral wealth, including gold, coltan, and tin. Since re-emerging in 2021, the M23 has captured large areas across North Kivu and Ituri provinces, significantly escalating tensions between Kinshasa and Kigali. The rebel group’s recent expansion into South Kivu marked one of its most significant territorial advances in years. Rwanda has repeatedly denied accusations from the Congolese government and international observers that it supports the M23 rebels.
