In a statement released on December 6, 2025, AFC/M23 clarified that the movement does not claim any territory outside the DRC and has no ambitions in Burundi, despite the country's ongoing involvement in destabilizing eastern DRC.
'The world has witnessed the extensive destruction caused by bombs launched from Burundian territory by Burundian forces: roads and bridges destroyed, schools damaged, health centres affected, and homes and places of worship destroyed,' the statement read.
'These attacks, carried out from beyond our borders, continue to harm our communities, spread fear, and force thousands of families to flee their homes.'
The statement also highlighted that Burundian forces, armed and supported by the Kinshasa regime, are being used to target Tutsi Banyamulenge populations in Minembwe. AFC/M23 pledged to stand by civilians and urged residents to remain calm while continuing daily activities.
The call for Burundian withdrawal comes amid heavy fighting in South Kivu. Over the past five days, clashes between DRC forces and AFC/M23 have intensified in areas including Kamanyola, Kaziba, and Rurambo in Uvira territory. AFC/M23 fighters have captured Rurambo and are attempting to seize Lubarika, while DRC forces try to regain control of Katogota and Kamanyola.
Reports indicate heavy shelling in Kamanyola originating from Luvungi, while other shells have fallen in Luvungi from Kamanyola. Civilian homes and infrastructure, including schools, have been destroyed, leaving many dead or injured and forcing thousands to flee.
A displaced resident from Kamanyola recounted the harrowing experience: 'They were firing shells that landed in houses. People were dying, others were injured, houses were burning. I have a family of seven: my husband, five children, and I. We fled the war.'
Burundi's forces have been implicated in the cross-border shelling. AFC/M23 condemned the attacks and vowed to continue protecting civilians, while elite fighters reportedly launched a major counterattack on December 4 against Burundian army positions in South Kivu, killing multiple soldiers, including Lt. Col. Athanase Minani, and taking others captive.
Burundian forces have been openly operating in South Kivu Province since 2022, after Burundi and the DRC signed a military cooperation agreement in an attempt to neutralise M23 rebels.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
