Key DRC-Burundi border reopens after two-month closure
The Kavimvira border crossing between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Burundi reopened on Mon, following a closure of over two months. This closure was due to an offensive by M23 rebels, reportedly supported by Rwanda, in the eastern DRC.
The Kavimvira border crossing between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Burundi reopened on Mon, following a closure of over two months. This closure was due to an offensive by M23 rebels, reportedly supported by Rwanda, in the eastern DRC.
The Kavimvira post, located on Lake Tanganyika, is a key point for regional trade along the main road connecting Bujumbura to Uvira. The closure in December coincided with M23's advance towards Uvira, which aimed to disrupt Burundi's military assistance to Congolese forces.
During the period of conflict, tens of thousands of individuals fled to Burundi for refuge.
The Kavimvira border crossing between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Burundi reopened on Mon, following a closure of over two months.
M23 forces withdrew from Uvira in January, following a request by the U.S. as part of mediation efforts between Kinshasa and Kigali. With the Congolese army regaining control, South Kivu Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi confirmed the reopening of the border at 8:00 am on Mon.
A Burundi border police official noted a significant number of Congolese citizens returning home. However, other border crossings in areas under M23 control remain closed.
The region, known for its mineral resources, has experienced ongoing instability for three decades, with the resurgence of M23 in 2021 contributing to the current crisis.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
