HRW Reports Forced Recruitment and Civilian Threats by Twirwaneho in High Plateaus

Bukavu, April 15, 2026 - Human Rights Watch has raised alarm over alleged human rights abuses committed by the armed group Twirwaneho in the High Plateaus of South Kivu, citing threats, forced recruitment, and restrictions on civilian movement in territories including Minembwe, Fizi, and Mwenga. In a new report, the organization states that civilians have been subjected to coercion, including demands that each family provide a fighter or pay financial compensation. Those who refuse are reportedly exposed to reprisals, including intimidation and punishment. The report further alleges that Twirwaneho, at times in coordination with AFC/M23 elements, has forcibly recruited civilians and restricted population movements in areas under its influence, preventing residents from leaving Minembwe despite ongoing insecurity. According to the findings, the town of Minembwe-reported to have been taken by AFC/M23 forces in previous fighting-remains encircled by government forces and allied groups. The continued clashes in the surrounding area have disrupted humanitarian access, complicating the delivery of aid and worsening food insecurity. Human Rights Watch also highlights deteriorating living conditions, including severe shortages of medicines and essential goods. In some areas, the cost of basic commodities such as sugar and salt has reportedly increased several times above normal levels due to supply constraints. The report notes that the humanitarian impact extends beyond rebel-held areas, affecting zones under government control as well, where shortages of medical supplies are also being reported. Twirwaneho, a self-defense group originally formed between 2019 and 2020, claims to protect Banyamulenge communities in the region. However, it has since become a significant armed actor in South Kivu, with allegations of collaboration and clashes with other armed groups, including AFC/M23. The group was previously led militarily by Michel Rukunda, known as Makanika, who was killed in a drone strike in February 2025. In a separate development, authorities recently released several Twirwaneho fighters who had surrendered during earlier clashes in Uvira, as part of ongoing judicial and reconciliation measures linked to armed group defections.