KINSHASA – Young Congolese resistance fighters, known as the Wazalendo, have been instrumental in recent military successes against terrorist groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly in the Masisi and Rutshuru territories.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Wazalendo, alongside the Congolese armed forces (FARDC), have launched significant assaults since the previous weekend, reclaiming the village of Somikivu and advancing towards Bunagana. Their recent operations have also resulted in the recapture of Kisuma and strategic advances in Mema, a critical step in their ongoing campaign against the M23 rebel group. The Wazalendo, who were mobilized by President Félix Tshisekedi in November 2022 to form vigilance groups, have faced accusations of terrorizing locals, reflecting the complex dynamics of their involvement in the conflict.