The M23 rebel group seized the strategic town of Walikale on Wednesday in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a mineral-rich area in North Kivu province, according to UN radio reports citing local sources. The rebels, allegedly backed by the Rwandan army, took control of the town with little resistance, Radio Okapi reported.
The capture of Walikale follows high-level talks between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Doha, where both leaders called for an immediate ceasefire. Despite these diplomatic efforts, M23 has continued its offensive, forcing thousands of residents to flee as clashes erupted between the rebels, Congolese government forces, and the pro-government Wazalendo militias.
Situated 125 kilometers northwest of Goma, Walikale is known for its vast tin deposits. The rebel group has intensified its campaign in the region since December, previously capturing Goma and Bukavu. The ongoing conflict has displaced thousands, with Congo and international actors accusing Rwanda of supporting M23—an allegation Kigali denies.
