South Kivu: Civil Society Denounces Massacres and Calls for International Intervention

Bukavu, November 28, 2025 - Civil society organizations and socio-political actors in South Kivu condemned deadly operations allegedly carried out by a coalition of FARDC (Armed Forces of the DRC) soldiers, Wazalendo militias, FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda), Mai-Mai militias, and elements of the Burundian army.

The coalition is accused of targeting civilians in multiple areas of the province, including the massacre of Banyamulenge community members in Mikenge, the bombing of Minembwe airfield, the bombing of Nzibira from Kisangani, and violence against young Banyamulenge in the Uvira highlands, as well as massacres in Luvungi.

These organizations argue that such acts constitute violations of international humanitarian law and urge humanitarian and human rights organizations to intervene on behalf of the victims. They also criticize the military strategy implemented by the central government under President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo.

Finally, the statement calls on the inhabitants of South Kivu to unite around a federalist ideal, aiming to build a strong nation that respects the rights of every citizen.