Burundi Calls for Calm After Soldiers’ Deaths in Uvira

Uvira, DRC - Burundian Foreign Minister Dr. Edouard Bizimana has urged calm following the deaths of several Burundian soldiers in the Uvira area of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Speaking to diplomats on December 8, 2025, Minister Bizimana highlighted that the AFC/M23 coalition had sought to capture Uvira prior to the Washington peace agreement signed on December 4, but Burundian troops intervened.

“They wanted the agreement to be signed after capturing Luvungi and Uvira, but our troops stood firm. I congratulate the Burundian soldiers fighting for peace in Congo so that the enemy does not invade our country,” said Bizimana.

The minister stressed that Burundian troops are in the DRC to protect their borders, citizens, and property, and will remain until the mission’s objectives are resolved.

Since early December, Burundian forces have faced intense fighting against AFC/M23 in South Kivu Province, especially in heavily populated areas like Kamanyola.

AFC/M23 spokesman Lt Col Willy Ngoma warned on December 6:

“Those who crossed over have learned their lesson. Congo is not Cibitoke, it is not Ngozi or Bujumbura. They find us here, we are fighting for the truth.”

In coordination with DRC, Wazalendo, and FDLR groups, Burundian troops have helped liberate several towns including Katogota, Rurambo, Luberizi, Luvungi, Mutalule, Bwegera, Nyakabere, and Sange. However, many Burundian soldiers were killed, including Lt Col Athanase Minani, and over 100 were taken prisoner on December 4.

Kamenge Military Hospital received 87 wounded soldiers, with others transported to facilities like Tanganyika Care Polyclinic in Bujumbura.

After the capture of Sange hospital on December 8, Burundian troops were reportedly ordered to leave Uvira, though it remains unclear whether this was for strategic withdrawal or self-protection. They were accompanied by DRC and Wazalendo forces, Imbonerakure, and civilians, with most remaining soldiers concentrated around Minembwe, covering Uvira, Fizi, and Mwenga territories.

As of December 8, 2025, AFC/M23 fighters were within 30 kilometers of Uvira, and Minister Bizimana confirmed their objective of capturing the city before Christmas remains on track.