Over 1,000 Flee Uvira Following AFC/M23 Withdrawal

Uvira, DRC - January 21, 2026 - More than 1,000 Congolese Tutsi fled Uvira town after the AFC/M23 coalition withdrew its fighters. A local civil society member reported that between January 19 and 20, FDLR, DRC, and Wazalendo forces abducted residents and took them to unknown locations. Over 300 Tutsi families sought refuge in the Kamanyola Center in Walungu Territory, under AFC/M23 control. Spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka added that more than 200 Banyamulenge families relocated from Kamanyola Town. Attempts by some residents to reach the highlands connecting Uvira, Fizi, and Mwenga Territories were blocked by Wazalendo fighters. While those in Kamanyola are reportedly safe, many remain worried for relatives still in Uvira.

Faits rapportés

Uvira, DRC - January 21, 2026 - More than 1,000 Congolese Tutsi fled Uvira town after the AFC/M23 coalition withdrew its fighters. A local civil society member reported that between January 19 and 20, FDLR, DRC, and Wazalendo forces abducted residents and took them to unknown locations. Over 300 Tutsi families sought refuge in the Kamanyola Center in Walungu Territory, under AFC/M23 control. Spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka added that more than 200 Banyamulenge families relocated from Kamanyola Town. Attempts by some residents to reach the highlands connecting Uvira, Fizi, and Mwenga Territories were blocked by Wazalendo fighters. While those in Kamanyola are reportedly safe, many remain worried for relatives still in Uvira.