SOS Médias Burundi

Cibitoke, June 24, 2025 – As the war between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the M23 rebels rages in eastern Congo, thousands of civilians flee seeking safety. Many attempt to cross the Rusizi River to reach the Burundian commune of Rugombo, hoping to continue on to Bukavu via Kamanyola. For many, crossing the border does not end their ordeal.

Congolese refugees report being victims of theft, physical assaults, extortion, and, more gravely, sexual violence. According to multiple consistent testimonies, the perpetrators are members of the Imbonerakure—the youth league of Burundi’s ruling party, the CNDD-FDD—as well as some Burundian soldiers. Victims describe these acts as « systematic, » which even shocks local residents of Rugombo.

“Young girls and women are being raped, families are being robbed of their belongings. They come looking for passage, not brutality,” denounces a local resident who wished to remain anonymous.

Strict restrictions on movement

Information gathered from several local sources indicates that Congolese are strictly forbidden from crossing the Rusizi River into Burundi. Likewise, Burundians are not allowed to cross into M23-controlled zones, notably Kamanyola and parts of Katogota. The order is clear: anyone caught crossing the border is immediately targeted by fire from the Burundian Republican Guard, whether man or woman.

Moreover, severe restrictions also apply to movement within Congolese territory. Adults leaving Kamanyola or Katogota are not permitted to travel to Luvungi. Only women and children are allowed this passage.

The deteriorated roads between Kamanyola and Uvira—now controlled by M23—force civilians to take river routes that were thought less monitored but have become deadly traps.

Authorities silent, investigation announced

When contacted by SOS Médias Burundi, Carême Bizoza, governor of Cibitoke province, stated he was not informed of Congolese crossing in other localities. However, he pledged to launch an investigation to verify these allegations and acknowledged that if confirmed, such acts could seriously damage bilateral relations between Burundi and the DRC.

A fragile diplomatic climate

Amid this growing humanitarian crisis, residents of Rugombo are calling on authorities to end abuses and guarantee safe passage for Congolese refugees. Local and international NGOs may soon be called upon to document the violence and provide assistance to victims.

Since the start of the year, tens of thousands of Congolese refugees have been received in Cibitoke province, on the border with South Kivu in eastern DRC. Most have since been transferred to Rutana province in southeastern Burundi.

Currently, Burundian and Congolese authorities suspect inhabitants of M23-held zones of collaborating with the rebels. According to security sources contacted by SOS Médias Burundi, orders to shoot on sight anyone crossing the border have been in effect since this Tuesday.