Capture of Uvira Seen as Key Opportunity for Regional Peace

Uvira, South Kivu, DRC - The capture of Uvira by AFC/M23 fighters has dominated headlines across Africa and globally. While some view it as a normal military operation against over 20,000 Burundian soldiers allied with FARDC, FDLR, Wazalendo, and mercenaries targeting Banyamulenge communities, others see a deeper political significance.

A delegate from the Great Lakes region likened the capture of Uvira to Moses striking the rock to bring forth water, signaling hope for the region. He noted that following the Washington Agreement signed on December 4, 2025, the takeover does not threaten regional security, calling it “one of the best developments in regional politics in recent years.”

The diplomat explained that the operation is the culmination of previous talks in Washington, Doha, Nairobi, and Luanda, some of which have yet to reach a conclusion. He emphasized that the capture of Uvira diminishes the will to fight among opposing forces, particularly affecting Burundi, Kinshasa’s main ally. With Uvira under M23 control, Burundian ground troops can no longer easily move in or out of the DRC, limiting military options.

Located just over 20 kilometers from Bujumbura, Uvira is strategically significant. The Burundian government has warned that threats to Uvira could extend to Bujumbura. Meanwhile, for President Tshisekedi, the loss of Uvira disrupts the flow of war materials, reducing Kinshasa’s logistical advantages.

M23 believes it can defend Uvira effectively, arguing that its control protects Congolese Tutsis and other victims of violence in the two Kivus. The group stresses that for lasting peace, all parties-Kinshasa, M23, Rwanda, and Burundi-must respect the Washington and Doha agreements.

While Rwanda has shown willingness to honor its commitments, the diplomat underscored that Burundi must also uphold its obligations. Meanwhile, M23 and the DRC government have resumed talks in Doha, as Burundian troops who had entered the DRC fled Uvira, some returning home while others sought refuge in forests.