Ndayishimiye Accused of Deploying Imbonerakure to Control Gold Mines in Eastern DRC

SOUTH KIVU, DRC - Despite the withdrawal of Burundian troops from parts of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following the capture of Uvira, Burundian activities in the region have not ceased, according to local and regional sources.

Reports indicate that Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye ordered members of the Imbonerakure youth movement, initially deployed to fight the AFC/M23 alliance, to remain in the DRC and monitor gold mining sites in South Kivu Province.

The Imbonerakure are reportedly active in areas surrounding Uvira and Fizi Territory, where they are said to be involved in the management of gold mines following the withdrawal of Burundian troops from locations including Bijombo, Bibogobogo, Rugezi, Point-Zéro, Minembwe, and Bijabo between December 14 and 17, 2025.

The fall of Uvira reportedly triggered the large-scale withdrawal of Burundian forces, which had an estimated 20,000 troops deployed in South Kivu alone. The fighting around the city resulted in numerous casualties, while others fled toward surrounding hills and back into Burundi.

However, sources say the Imbonerakure remained behind, working alongside local armed groups, particularly Mai Mai fighters, in areas rich in precious minerals.

The Imbonerakure are alleged to be jointly managing mining sites in:

Kageregere, Gasozo, Mangwa, and Masango (Uvira area),

Kamituga, Nyamibungu, and Kitutu (Mwenga Territory).

These deployments reportedly trace back to 2018, when Burundian forces and Imbonerakure were sent to eastern DRC under the Burundi-DRC Joint Task Force (TAFOC), officially mandated to combat Burundian rebel groups operating across the border.

According to multiple sources, once in the DRC, these forces allegedly collaborated with Congolese armed groups, contributing to insecurity while focusing on control of mineral resources.

While President Ndayishimiye has consistently portrayed himself as a regional peacemaker, critics argue that the continued involvement of Burundian-linked forces in mining activities contradicts his stated objective of restoring peace and stability in eastern DRC.

Although Burundian authorities claim their deployment aimed at protecting civilians, sources allege that the forces failed to do so and instead became involved in violent operations, forced displacement, and the seizure of mining interests.

Some Imbonerakure members, speaking anonymously, reportedly expressed shock and disillusionment following the battle for Uvira, citing the deaths of comrades and serious injuries sustained during combat. Others said they fled the DRC rather than return to fighting, questioning the purpose of the war and their role in it.

Observers note that Ndayishimiye’s decision to deploy forces to the DRC has placed thousands of Burundian soldiers at risk, with many killed, wounded, or permanently disabled.

Meanwhile, activities linked to personal enrichment and mineral exploitation by armed actors are reported to be increasing, reinforcing concerns that economic interests, rather than security or peace, remain the driving force behind continued instability in eastern DRC.