Strategic Shift of ADF/ISCAP

Focus on Territorial Control in Ituri and North Kivu

Since April 2025, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), now operating under the Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP), have drastically altered their operational approach in the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to Africa Security Analysis (ASA), which gathered information from sources close to the group, the ADF/ISCAP has moved away from its previous tactics of rapid, high-impact raids. Instead, they now prioritize prolonged territorial occupation. This shift is part of a broader strategy aimed at consolidating control over regions in Ituri and North Kivu, establishing a multifaceted system of dominance over local populations. The methods employed include financial extortion, religious coercion, resource exploitation, and agricultural control.

In the Mambasa region (Ituri), the rebels have set up a coercive financial system, requiring each household to pay a compulsory "identification fee" of 10 USD, followed by a monthly levy of 30 USD. This system of tribute is enforced through violence and is designed to establish a proto-state authority in rebel-held areas.

Converting to Islam is compulsory

Simultaneously, the ADF/ISCAP imposes religious constraints: studying the Quran and converting to Islam are compulsory, with violent retribution for non-compliance. This religious enforcement aims to homogenize the social structure under rebel rule and legitimize their political-religious agenda by forcibly altering local cultural and religious practices.

In North Kivu’s Lubero territory, this strategy is expanding geographically and sectoral. Farmers must now buy a "token" costing around 10 USD to access their land. Additionally, there are reports of the rebels taking photographs to impose stricter controls on villagers' movements. In the Mutueyi area (Bambuba-Kisiki), ADF/ISCAP fighters operate freely, committing abductions and murders, thus creating an atmosphere of terror along rural routes.

The economic impact of this occupation is already visible. Security concerns are preventing access to agricultural zones, leading to a sharp food scarcity in local markets. Prices for staples such as beans and rice have risen significantly, making it difficult for families to afford basic necessities. Merchants fear the situation will worsen, with some contemplating importing food from Butembo, which could further disrupt market stability.

Beyond agricultural control, Africa Security Analysis also reports that the ADF/ISCAP has expanded into the artisanal gold mining sector. In the Bapere area, civilians are being forced to resume mining under the rebels' direct supervision, with the rebels taking a substantial share of the extracted gold. They set the price per gram, and any resistance is met with violent retribution.

Move towards permanent territorial consolidation

The current shift in the ADF/ISCAP’s operations signals a move towards permanent territorial consolidation. The group is no longer relying on sporadic acts of terror but is building a comprehensive network of economic, ideological, and military control to ensure its long-term presence. This strategy marks a deliberate effort to integrate into the local socio-political fabric, exploiting governance gaps and socio-economic vulnerabilities.

In response to this new form of control, a purely military solution is insufficient. Restoring state authority will require re-establishing administrative control, supporting agricultural production, securing vital commercial routes, and taking decisive action against illegal resource exploitation. The resilience of local communities will depend largely on how effectively Congolese authorities can counter this insidious form of dominance.