Features|Armed GroupsHundreds return from Burundi to DRC as border shut by M23 fighting reopensMore than 90,000 Congolese fled across the border after M23 stormed in and took control of Uvira nearly three months ago.
On Mon, Dec 8, 2025, M23 rebels advanced through South Kivu province, approaching Uvira, a city located at the northern end of Lake Tanganyika. It was the last major area under government control, as Congolese armed forces and allied militias, known as…
On Mon, Dec 8, 2025, M23 rebels advanced through South Kivu province, approaching Uvira, a city located at the northern end of Lake Tanganyika. It was the last major area under government control, as Congolese armed forces and allied militias, known as Wazalendo, resisted the M23/AFC alliance.
As fighting reached Uvira, residents, including Joseph Bahisi, evacuated the city. Bahisi and his family crossed the Kavimvira–Gatumba border into Burundi, joining approximately 90,000 Congolese refugees at Rumonge refugee camp, according to the United Nations.
Following the capture of Uvira on Tue, Dec 9, M23 maintained control until Dec 10, prompting Burundian authorities to close the Kavimvira border post due to security concerns. Despite M23's subsequent withdrawal under international pressure, the border remained closed until recently.
On the reopening of the Kavimvira border post, thousands of refugees began returning to Uvira. Local authorities have relaxed entry requirements for those without immigration documents, acknowledging that many fled without their identity papers.
On Mon, Dec 8, 2025, M23 rebels advanced through South Kivu province, approaching Uvira, a city located at the northern end of Lake Tanganyika.
Inspector General of Migration Maurice Mbonimpa announced the resumption of standard border services on the Burundian side. Meanwhile, Congolese authorities have facilitated the return of nearly 500 refugees by the end of the first day.
The border reopening is expected to revitalize the local economy and support cross-border activities, benefiting traders, students, and healthcare seekers. The closure had previously caused food shortages and economic difficulties for communities on both sides of the border.
Lucie Binja, a student from Uvira, emphasized the interdependence of Uvira and neighboring Burundian towns. Ghislain Kabamba, a social activist, highlighted the importance of the border for sustaining livelihoods.
Despite the reopening, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has raised concerns about the humanitarian strain on Burundi, hosting numerous refugees from the DRC. Efforts are underway to facilitate the full repatriation of displaced individuals to reduce this pressure.
As Uvira and its residents begin to recover, there remains a cautious optimism that stability will be restored, enabling economic and social revival in the region.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
