DRC: Burundian Soldiers Buried in Mass Graves in Kasika

Kasika, Mwenga, November 29, 2025 - The AFC/M23 coalition reported that several Burundian soldiers who died during recent clashes in Kasika, Mwenga, and surrounding areas were buried in mass graves. According to Lt Col Willy Ngoma, the coalition’s military spokesperson, the burials were conducted hastily by fellow soldiers amid ongoing fighting.

“It is shameful and sad to see Burundian soldiers who were injured in Kasika, Kirungutwe, Mwenga being taken to Walikale and then forcibly taken to Kisangani instead of being returned to their homes. They were killed for the interests of one person,” Lt Col Ngoma stated. He added that numerous Burundian soldiers’ bodies were buried in mass graves in Kasika prior to further clashes with local forces.

The announcement comes amid continued unrest in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where clashes involve government forces, FARDC, Wazalendo, and M23 fighters. On November 25, 2025, DRC and Wazalendo forces withdrew from Kasika, Kamituga, and Mwenga town, leaving behind looted shops and homes, according to local sources.

Earlier, on November 23, the AFC/M23 coalition had captured the Buhimba center in Group of Waloa Yungu, Walikale territory. However, the coalition withdrew the following day after an offensive by DRC and Wazalendo forces, returning to Kasopo.

The reports highlight the intensity of clashes in South Kivu, the complex regional involvement of Burundian troops, and the ongoing struggle between the DRC government and various armed groups over strategic territories.

The second half of November 2025 highlights a stark contrast between Rwanda’s internal trajectory of economic modernization and diplomatic expansion, and the volatile security crisis escalating on its western border.

1. Regional Instability and Security Dilemmas The security situation in the Great Lakes region remains the primary challenge. Despite ongoing mediation efforts in Doha and Washington, distrust persists between the DRC and Rwanda. The conflict in Eastern DRC has intensified, with the AFC/M23 coalition making significant territorial gains in North and South Kivu, drawing in Burundian troops and engaging FARDC and Wazalendo forces.

Diplomatic Stance: Rwanda has adopted a firm posture, with Foreign Minister Nduhungirehe rejecting recent ICGLR resolutions as "irrelevant" and President Kagame issuing strong warnings regarding the security of Goma.

Mineral Dispute: The President also strongly rebuked European nations, accusing them of historical and ongoing looting of DRC minerals while scapegoating Rwanda.

Repatriation: On a positive note, efforts to demobilize FDLR fighters have yielded results, with over 500 Rwandans, including former combatants, returning home from the DRC during this period.

2. Diplomatic Leadership and Global Influence Kigali cemented its status as a diplomatic hub by hosting high-level summits.

Francophonie: The hosting of the 46th OIF Ministerial Meeting underscored Rwanda's influence within the Francophone world, with a specific focus on women's role in development.

Pan-Africanism: The African Renaissance Retreat, led by President Kagame and Aliko Dangote, brought together global leaders to discuss self-driven African solutions.

New Partnerships: Diplomatic ties were strengthened through new ambassadorships in Singapore and Lithuania , and the opening of a Swiss Embassy in Kigali.

3. Economic Resilience and Infrastructure Despite regional trade disruptions caused by post-election unrest in Tanzania, Rwanda’s economy shows resilience.

Trade Growth: The UAE and DRC have emerged as the top export destinations, with total exports reaching Rwf 3,955.5 billion.

Development: Key infrastructure projects, such as the Rubengera-Nyange road, were completed , and significant investments were made in public health, including a new Rwf 30 billion laboratory for zoonotic diseases.

4. Governance and Social Regulation Internally, the government maintained strict regulatory oversight.

Accountability: The Rwanda Governance Board closed over 9,000 non-compliant places of worship to ensure safety and proper governance.

Anti-Corruption: A crackdown on corruption saw arrests within the FDA and brewery sectors , aligning with AU recognition of Rwanda’s strong anti-corruption standing.

In summary, while Rwanda continues to advance its "Vision 2050" through aggressive economic diversification and strategic diplomacy, the deteriorating war in the Eastern DRC and the associated geopolitical fallout pose a critical threat that dominated the national agenda in late November 2025.