Burundi Faces an Unwelcome New Neighbor After Fall of Uvira, Senator Says

Bujumbura, December 15, 2025 - Burundian Senator Evode Uwizeyimana has warned that Burundi must come to terms with the AFC/M23, following the capture of Uvira in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, or risk sliding into a strategic and economic dead end.

Speaking on Burundi National Television, Uwizeyimana said the takeover of Uvira places Burundi in a difficult position, urging authorities to seek an understanding with the group now controlling the city. “Not doing so would expose Burundi to problems without solutions,” he cautioned.

The senator stressed Uvira’s strategic and economic importance, describing it as both a former hub for anti-M23 operations and a key center of trade for Burundi. He noted that defeated forces from Goma and Bukavu, including Wazalendo fighters, had regrouped there, making the city a prime target.

Uwizeyimana warned that continued M23 advances could isolate Burundi, leaving it with limited access routes and threatening cross-border commerce vital to Bujumbura’s economy. He also raised concerns over Burundian troops still stranded in the highlands of South Kivu, arguing that their withdrawal would require negotiations with the M23.

According to the senator, the capture of Uvira was unrelated to the Washington peace agreement between Rwanda and the DRC and followed months of military preparation by the AFC/M23 amid stalled negotiations.

In response to the takeover, Burundi closed the Kavimvira and Vugizo border posts with the DRC, adding to existing border closures with Rwanda, further underscoring the growing regional strain.