What's happened
Between mid-October and late November 2025, armed groups in eastern Congo and Mali have intensified violence. In Congo's North Kivu, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) killed at least 89 people, including 17 in a maternity ward. In Mali, al-Qaeda-linked JNIM executed TikTok user Mariame Cissé after abducting her. Malian military and allied militias also killed at least 31 civilians in Segou amid ongoing conflict.
What's behind the headline?
Escalating Violence Amid Fragile Peace Efforts
The recent surge in attacks by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Congo and the al-Qaeda-linked Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM) in Mali underscores the fragility of security in these regions. Despite ongoing peace initiatives, the ADF's brutal assault on a maternity ward in Byambwe and multiple village attacks reveal their operational capacity and disregard for civilian life. Similarly, JNIM's execution of Mariame Cissé, a social media figure, highlights their intent to suppress dissent and control narratives.
Complex Actors and Blurred Lines
The involvement of local militias like the Wazalendo in Congo and the Dozo militias allied with Mali's military complicates the conflict dynamics. These groups, while positioned as defenders, have committed atrocities against civilians, often under the guise of counterinsurgency. This blurring of lines between state forces, militias, and rebel groups exacerbates civilian suffering and undermines trust in authorities.
Regional and International Implications
The violence threatens regional stability, with Rwanda-backed M23 rebels controlling parts of Congo and international mediators like the US and Qatar attempting peace talks. The ongoing fuel blockade in Mali imposed by JNIM further destabilizes the country, impacting humanitarian conditions. The international community's limited response, including calls for investigations by MONUSCO, has yet to stem the violence.
Forecast and Consequences
Without decisive international pressure and effective local governance, these conflicts will likely intensify, causing further civilian casualties and displacement. The targeting of health facilities and civilians, including women and children, signals potential war crimes. The continuation of such violence will hinder economic development, regional cooperation, and efforts to attract foreign investment, particularly in Congo's mining sector.
Relevance to Readers
While geographically distant, these conflicts illustrate the global challenge of insurgency, state fragility, and human rights abuses. They highlight the importance of international diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and the need for robust mechanisms to protect civilians in conflict zones.
What the papers say
The Associated Press and The New Arab provide detailed accounts of the Allied Democratic Forces' (ADF) attacks in Congo, including the chilling massacre of 17 women in a maternity ward in Byambwe. AP quotes Col. Alain Kiwewa describing how "Women who were breastfeeding were brutally slaughtered and found with their throats slit in their hospital beds." Reuters corroborates these reports, emphasizing the scale of violence with at least 89 killed in North Kivu between November 13 and 19, including abductions and looting.
In Mali, multiple sources including The Independent, Sky News, and AP News recount the abduction and execution of TikTok user Mariame Cissé by suspected Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM) militants. The Independent quotes Yehia Tandina, mayor of Timbuktu: "The young TikTok user Mariame Cissé was abducted by armed men... The following day, at dusk, the same men brought her back... and executed her in front of a crowd." This personalizes the conflict's human toll and the militants' intent to silence voices.
Human Rights Watch and All Africa report on abuses by Malian military and allied Dozo militias in Segou, with HRW detailing summary executions and village burnings. Witnesses describe soldiers and militias accusing villagers of collaborating with jihadists before killing them, highlighting the complex and brutal nature of counterinsurgency efforts.
All Africa also sheds light on the ongoing violence in Congo's South Kivu, where the Rwanda-backed M23 and allied AFC rebels, along with local militias, are implicated in massacres and arbitrary executions, worsening civilian suffering. A missionary quoted by All Africa laments the lack of effective international sanctions on Rwanda, suggesting diplomatic failures.
Together, these sources paint a grim picture of escalating violence, civilian targeting, and the interplay of multiple armed actors in Congo and Mali, underscoring the urgent need for credible investigations and international intervention.
How we got here
Eastern Congo and Mali have long suffered from armed conflicts involving rebel groups and militias. The ADF, originating from Uganda, operates in Congo's North Kivu, while JNIM, an al-Qaeda affiliate, controls parts of Mali. Both countries face complex ethnic, political, and territorial disputes, with military and militia forces often implicated in civilian abuses.
Go deeper
- What is the role of the Allied Democratic Forces in Congo?
- Who was Mariame Cissé and why was she targeted?
- How are local militias impacting civilian safety in Mali and Congo?
Common question
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What happened to TikTok star Mariame Cissé in Mali?
The tragic case of Mariame Cissé, a popular TikTok influencer in Mali, has shocked many and raised concerns about the rising violence in the region. Her abduction and execution by armed men highlight the dangerous security situation, especially in rural and contested areas. This incident prompts important questions about regional stability, the impact of jihadist groups, and the safety of social media influencers in conflict zones. Below, we explore the key details and broader implications of this alarming event.
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Why Is Jihadist Violence Increasing in Mali and Congo?
Recent reports highlight a worrying rise in jihadist violence across Mali and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Understanding the reasons behind this escalation, the groups involved, and its regional impact is crucial. Below, we explore the key questions about this ongoing crisis and what it means for local communities and regional stability.
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What’s the Latest on the Conflicts in Mali and Congo?
Recent violence in Mali and Congo has raised serious concerns about regional stability and security. From deadly attacks by jihadist groups to ongoing insurgencies, these conflicts continue to threaten civilians and regional peace. Curious about what’s happening now, how these conflicts compare, and what international responses are underway? Keep reading for the latest updates and answers to your key questions.
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What Are the Biggest News Stories Today?
Stay updated with the latest global hotspots and crises shaping the world right now. From escalating violence in Africa to environmental threats in Europe, discover what’s making headlines and why it matters to you. Below, find answers to common questions about today’s most pressing news stories.
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How Are African Conflicts Shaping Global Security?
Recent violence in Mali and Congo has raised concerns about regional stability and its impact on the world. From jihadist attacks to regional insurgencies, these conflicts are more than local issues—they influence international security, geopolitical tensions, and global responses. Curious about how these ongoing crises affect the wider world? Below, we explore key questions about Africa's conflicts and their global implications.
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What’s Behind the Violence in Congo and Mali?
Recent attacks in Congo and Mali have heightened regional instability, causing concern worldwide. Understanding who’s involved, the impact on civilians, and how these conflicts affect regional stability is crucial. Below, we answer common questions about these ongoing crises and what they mean for the future of Central Africa.
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What Are the Recent Attacks in Congo and Mali?
Recent violence in Congo and Mali has drawn international concern, with deadly attacks targeting civilians, medical facilities, and social media influencers. Understanding who is behind these attacks, the current security situation, and how local governments are responding can help clarify the ongoing crisis in these regions. Below, we explore the latest incidents and what they mean for regional stability.
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Why Are Attacks Increasing in Congo and Mali?
Recent violence in Congo and Mali has escalated sharply, with deadly attacks targeting civilians and military personnel. Understanding the reasons behind this surge can help clarify the ongoing conflicts and what might be done to stop them. Below, we explore who is involved, the impact on local communities, and whether international efforts can make a difference.
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What’s Causing the Surge in Violence in Congo, Mali, and Nigeria?
Recent months have seen a disturbing rise in violence across parts of Africa, especially in Congo, Mali, and Nigeria. Armed groups, militias, and insurgents are escalating attacks, kidnappings, and civilian casualties. But what’s behind this surge? Understanding the complex factors driving these conflicts can help us grasp the urgent need for international attention and action. Below, we explore the main causes and what they mean for local populations and global stability.
More on these topics
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Mali, officially the Republic of Mali, is a landlocked country in West Africa. Mali is the eighth-largest country in Africa, with an area of just over 1,240,000 square kilometres.
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The Allied Democratic Forces is a rebel group in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, considered a terrorist organisation by the Ugandan government. It was originally based in western Uganda but has expanded into the neighbouring DRC.
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The Democratic Republic of the Congo, also known as Congo-Kinshasa, Zaire, DR Congo, DRC, the DROC, or simply the Congo, is a country located in Central Africa. It was formerly called Zaire.
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Human Rights Watch is an international non-governmental organization, headquartered in New York City, that conducts research and advocacy on human rights.
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North Kivu (Swahili: Jimbo la Kivu Kaskazini) is a province bordering Lake Kivu in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The capital city is Goma. Spanning approximately 59,483 square kilometers with a population estimate of 8,985,711 as of 2020..