Ruberwa Warns Of Renewed Fighting And Humanitarian Collapse In Minembwe

Kinshasa, August 21, 2026 - Former Vice President Azarias Ruberwa warned that renewed hostilities in Minembwe are deepening a humanitarian crisis and eroding the fragile calm that had held for about two months.

Ruberwa said ceasefire commitments were being repeatedly violated and that drone bombardments had resumed. He denounced a blockade of local markets, describing it as a grave violation, and cited widespread destruction of homes, schools, hospitals and cattle herds.

He criticized the FARDC-Burundi coalition and called for a courageous peace that is not imposed by force. Fighting was also reported in Fizi, Baraka, Masisi and Walikale, reflecting the wider volatility across eastern DRC.

The warning highlights the risk that localized escalations in the highlands could undermine broader peace efforts and worsen humanitarian access in already fragile conflict zones.