DRC: AFC/M23 Facilitates Return of Burundian Troops from South Kivu

Uvira, December 12, 2025 - Burundian troops defeated in South Kivu were allowed to return home on the evening of December 10, 2025, crossing the Kavimvira border, now controlled by AFC/M23. Observers on both the Uvira and Bujumbura sides reported long lines of Burundian soldiers returning through the border, which has since been closed.

Since December 9, the Kavimvira border on the DRC side has been under the control of AFC/M23, which reportedly facilitated the soldiers’ repatriation.

These troops had been engaged in battles in the Ruzizi Valley and surrounding mountains, fighting alongside FARDC, Wazalendo, and FDLR forces against AFC/M23. Despite witnesses confirming their return, the Burundian Ambassador to the DRC denied the reports. Burundi had stationed more than 20,000 troops in South Kivu, and the conflict to capture Uvira resulted in heavy casualties and others fleeing to nearby mountains or back home. During these operations, Burundian forces were reportedly defeated in North and South Kivu.

In response to the ongoing conflict, Burundi has closed its border with the DRC on the South Kivu side to prevent infiltration by enemies.