On the night of July 21 to 22, 2025, Wazalendo fighters—believed to have emerged from Virunga National Park—launched coordinated assaults in the Mugunga area and the Rusayo locality.
Gunfire echoed for nearly three hours as AFC/M23 forces engaged the attackers in an effort to neutralize the threat to Goma’s security. Residents in neighborhoods such as Ndosho and Kyeshero reported hearing heavy gunfire and expressed fear that the violence might reach their communities.
However, AFC/M23 forces successfully pushed back the Wazalendo fighters before dawn.
The coalition has maintained control of Goma since January 2025. On July 22, Manzi Willy, the North Kivu governor appointed by AFC/M23, reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the city.
“Our security forces remain steadfast and dedicated to the mission of eliminating criminal elements seeking to disrupt the safety of our people,” Manzi stated.
He further revealed that, following the coalition’s takeover of Goma, opposing forces had hidden weapons, ammunition, grenades, and other explosives among the civilian population.
According to Manzi, AFC/M23 continues to uncover and dismantle these threats on a daily basis.
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