Rwanda and DRC exchange accusations over Banyamulenge attacks amid ongoing tensions

Kigali, April 3, 2026 - Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have traded accusations over recent violence in eastern DRC, particularly in areas inhabited by the Banyamulenge community. Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo criticized statements from the DRC government accusing AFC/M23 of responsibility for attacks in Minembwe, arguing instead that Congolese forces and their allies are the ones carrying out abuses. Makolo accused Kinshasa of “distorting the truth” and attempting to shift blame for actions committed by government forces and allied groups, including Burundian troops and Wazalendo militias. The allegations come amid continued instability in eastern DRC, where multiple armed actors remain active despite ongoing peace talks in Doha. Rwanda maintains that lasting peace in the region depends on the dismantling of the FDLR, which Kigali accuses of spreading genocidal ideology and fueling insecurity in the area. The DRC government has not publicly responded to the latest statements.

Faits rapportés

Kigali, April 3, 2026 - Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have traded accusations over recent violence in eastern DRC, particularly in areas inhabited by the Banyamulenge community. Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo criticized statements from the DRC government accusing AFC/M23 of responsibility for attacks in Minembwe, arguing instead that Congolese forces and their allies are the ones carrying out abuses. Makolo accused Kinshasa of “distorting the truth” and attempting to shift blame for actions committed by government forces and allied groups, including Burundian troops and Wazalendo militias. The allegations come amid continued instability in eastern DRC, where multiple armed actors remain active despite ongoing peace talks in Doha. Rwanda maintains that lasting peace in the region depends on the dismantling of the FDLR, which Kigali accuses of spreading genocidal ideology and fueling insecurity in the area. The DRC government has not publicly responded to the latest statements.