The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has intensified military operations to retake the strategic mining area of Rubaya, in Masisi territory, North Kivu province, where AFC/M23 rebels have maintained control for nearly two years.
Since the morning of February 23, Congolese armed forces (FARDC), supported by Wazalendo militia groups, have carried out large-scale attacks around Rubaya, particularly in the localities of Kawele, Kanyaru and Mululu in the Bahunde area.
Armed groups involved in the offensive reportedly include PARECO-FF, Maï-Maï Lamuka and Raïa Mutomboki, militias that were previously active across Masisi before AFC/M23 forces took control of the area.
On the morning of February 24, AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka accused government forces of conducting drone strikes on Rubaya’s town center, alleging civilian casualties.
According to the rebel spokesperson, drones operated by government forces opened fire on the town starting at 8:43 a.m., causing panic among residents and reportedly killing civilians. These claims have not been independently verified.
Rubaya is one of the most strategic mining zones in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, with deposits estimated to account for around 15 percent of global coltan production. AFC/M23 fighters seized control of the area in early May 2024 after pushing out Congolese, Burundian and Wazalendo forces.
On February 5, 2026, the Congolese government reportedly submitted to the United States a list of mineral sites open to potential American investment, including Rubaya. AFC/M23 officials have recently questioned the move, arguing that Kinshasa is attempting to allocate mining concessions in territories it does not control.
