Burundian Lt Col Athanase Minani Killed in DRC Fighting

South Kivu, DRC, December 5, 2025 - Lieutenant Colonel Athanase Minani, commander of the 8th Battalion of the Burundian Army deployed in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), was reportedly killed during clashes with the AFC/M23 rebel group in the Luvungi area. The fighting also claimed the lives of several of his bodyguards.

Lt Col Minani, a former member of the Ex FAB, had been promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in July 2025. His death was confirmed by the Burundian Human Rights Commission and Pacifique Nininahazwe, leader of the FOCODE organization, who described him as the highest-ranking Burundian soldier killed in this conflict. Neither the Burundian Army nor AFC/M23 has officially confirmed the report.

The AFC/M23 resumed heavy attacks after learning of planned offensives by DRC, Burundian, and Wazalendo forces in Kamanyola. On December 2, AFC/M23 fighters opened fire, disrupting the DRC coalition. Subsequent shelling by DRC and Burundian forces targeted Kamanyola, destroying homes and infrastructure and killing three civilians.

Since the morning of December 5, joint forces have been attacking areas in Uvira Territory, including Katogota, Kamanyola, and Luvungi Gurupoma, prompting many residents to flee to Sange, Runingu, Ndolera, and Uvira city.

The Deputy Leader of AFC/M23, Bertrand Bisimwa, stated that Burundian forces are shelling densely populated areas, including schools, churches, and markets, resulting in civilian casualties, including children. Social media footage posted by Bisimwa shows extensive destruction near Ngomo Mountain in Kamanyola.

The fighting continues despite the Rwanda-DRC peace agreement signed on December 4, 2025, which AFC/M23 claims does not apply to them.