Amid hopes of easing tensions and halting clashes in the Minembwe area following a meeting between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda held in London, UK, local residents report that they are still experiencing serious impacts of insecurity and ongoing fighting that continue to disrupt their everyday lives.
Reports from Minembwe indicate that a coalition of forces from the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), supported by the Burundian army, the FDLR rebel group, and Wazalendo militia groups, carried out drone strikes that damaged civilian infrastructure and health service facilities.
According to information from local sources, some of these drones exploded in populated areas, destroying several houses and causing significant damage to the Minembwe General Hospital located in Kiziba. Residents say the attacks have caused fear and anxiety, especially for families who were already coping with the consequences of long-standing conflict in the region.
Minembwe Hospital is considered a key health facility serving populations across parts of Fizi, Mwenga, and Uvira territories. Its damage could have serious consequences for healthcare delivery and for residents who already have limited access to medical services.
Reports from the southern part of Minembwe Centre, in the Bivumu area, indicate incidents of cattle looting targeting Banyamulenge herders. Although the exact number of cattle taken has not yet been confirmed, local accounts suggest that the number runs into the dozens.
Residents claim that the cattle were looted by FARDC soldiers coming from areas of Lulenge in Fizi Territory, South Kivu Province. The loss of livestock is being viewed as a serious issue, as cattle farming is the backbone of the economy and livelihood for many Banyamulenge families living in Minembwe and its surrounding areas.
There are also reports indicating that the drones used in these attacks were launched from directions of Point Zéro in Uvira, as well as from Burundi.
These events are taking place at a time when many residents had hoped that ceasefire agreements and resolutions reached at an international meeting held in London would help restore peace in the hills of Minembwe and surrounding areas. However, residents say they continue to witness military activities that increase tension and raise concerns about worsening insecurity.
Regarding the looted cattle, local sources report that MRDP–Twirwaneho has begun tracking operations aimed at recovering them and returning them to their rightful owners. However, no detailed information has yet been released on the outcome of these efforts or the number of livestock that may have been recovered.
