According to Radio France Internationale (RFI), the move aims to thwart a potential offensive by the M23 armed group to capture the city of Bukavu.
The reinforcements consist of a full battalion. Reports indicate that the troops were assembled at a military base in Gatumba, near the border, before their deployment to the DRC.
This battalion will be the 16th unit of Burundian forces stationed in the DRC since 2022, following a cooperation agreement between the two countries to combat armed groups in North and South Kivu.
Burundian troops have been fighting alongside the Congolese army in a coalition that includes the FDLR, a terrorist group formed by remnant perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Previously, all Burundian troops stationed in North Kivu were redeployed to South Kivu after suffering losses against M23. They are now securing key strategic locations, including Kavumu, home to a critical airport.
The withdrawal of these troops, led by Brigadier General Pontien Hakizimana, also known as "Mingi," from North Kivu reportedly facilitated M23's capture of Sake and Goma.
Reports now suggest that M23 could advance toward Bukavu if its positions continue to come under attack.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/burundi-to-deploy-more-troops-to-south-kivu
