M23 Rebels takes full control of Walikale in DRC
March 19, 2025, at approximately 1500 hours, the M23-AFC has successfully seized control of the mining city of KILAMBO, the administrative centre of the Walikale Territory, which serves as the main aerial evacuation hub for all mining operations in the region. This hub is critical for mineral exports from Walikale, following the Pinga-Goma route and extending beyond the province to Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya, the most influential nations within the East African Community (EAC).
This strategic offensive followed three days of intense and sustained firepower against FARDC forces and allied units across eight key strongholds:
- MPOFI
- KIGOMA
- MUVUNGI
- KALILENGE
- MUTAKATO
- ITEBERO
- NGORA
- MUBANDA
The Walikale Territory has the second-largest reserve of rare minerals in the region, ranking just behind Lualaba Province in Grand Katanga. It contains vast deposits of:
- Coltan
- Pyrochlore
- Lithium
- Uranium
- Tin
- Cassiterite
- Orlpham
- Cobalt
- Gold
- Tantalum
- Tungsten
- Tourmaline
M23-AFC's Current Defensive Zones
Simultaneously, M23-AFC has established three active "Defence Zones", each under the command of Brigadier Generals, all of whom are currently sanctioned by the European Union and the United Nations:
- Southern Defence Zone: Covers territories already seized in South Kivu, as well as targets designated for future operations in the deep south. Commanded by Brigadier General Byamungu Maheshe (alias "Taiga-1").
- Northern Defence Zone: Covers a vast portion of North Kivu, including Goma, Masisi, Rutshuru, and Lubero. Commanded by Brigadier General Baudouin Ngaruye Wa Nyamuro.
- Northwestern Defence Zone: Currently being expanded into Walikale, with an objective to advance towards Kisangani. Commanded by Brigadier General Justin Gacheri Musanga (alias "Bravo-3").
M23-AFC's Tactical Approach
According to intelligence gathered by Africa Security Analysis, the M23-AFC operates a specialized electronic warfare unit equipped with four advanced drone systems not available in the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) inventory. These drones play a critical role in pre-offensive operations:
- Reconnaissance Drone (Detection)
- Surveillance Drone (Recording)
- Electronic Warfare Drone (Jamming)
- Combat Drone (Mass Destruction)
Beyond electronic warfare capabilities, M23-AFC's assault doctrine relies on overwhelming firepower, deploying:
- A PKM machine gun section for sustained suppressive fire.
- An RPG-7 anti-tank section for engaging enemy fortifications and armoured targets.
- A mortar detachment (60mm, 81mm, 82mm, or 120-122mm calibres) for preparing assault routes and neutralizing enemy defensive positions.
Impact on FARDC and Civilian Population
The FARDC and its allied forces have struggled to withstand these coordinated assaults, leading to significant territorial losses and triggering large-scale civilian displacement.
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