The meeting held on August 7-8 marks a critical step forward in implementing the Peace Agreement signed between the two countries in Washington, D.C., on June 27, 2025.
The JSCM is responsible for overseeing the execution of the Harmonised Plan for the Neutralisation of the FDLR militia group, as well as managing the lifting of defensive measures by Rwanda, all outlined in the Peace Agreement.
The Mechanism also serves as a platform for intelligence and information sharing, facilitating cooperation between the DRC and Rwanda to enhance regional security.
At the meeting, the permanent members—the DRC and Rwanda—adopted terms of reference to govern future sessions and began discussions on practical steps toward implementing the Peace Agreement.
Observers from the United States, the State of Qatar, the African Union Commission, and the Representative of the African Union Mediator participated actively, providing support to ensure the impartial and effective advancement of the peace process.
In a joint statement on Saturday, both countries expressed gratitude for the contributions and partnership of the African Union, the United States, and Qatar in supporting peaceful resolution efforts in the region.
U.S. Senior Advisor for Africa Massad Boulos highlighted the importance of the joint security mechanism, stating that this cooperation is essential to transforming the Peace Agreement into lasting peace and stability for the communities impacted by conflict.
“This cooperation is what will turn the Peace Agreement into lasting peace and stability for communities in the region,” he stated.
The meeting marks a hopeful milestone in efforts to promote stability in the Great Lakes region. Follow-up meetings are expected in the coming days.
According to the management, this latest expansion aligns with NCBA’s mission to be present where it matters most and to deliver customer-centered financial solutions and value across the region.
“As a regionally trusted bank, NCBA can be depended upon to provide the best banking experience for customers in Rubavu and neighboring areas,” said Maurice Toroitich, Managing Director of NCBA Bank Rwanda.
“We believe Rubavu’s growing economy holds immense potential. Our presence here is not just about access—it’s about partnership and helping our customers scale their dreams responsibly and sustainably.”
Speaking on the significance of this milestone, Chairman of the NCBA Bank Rwanda Board, Amb. Dr. Benjamin Rugangazi, remarked: “Opening this branch reflects our belief in the country’s vision for economic inclusivity and decentralization. We are committed to supporting Rwanda’s financial ecosystem and empowering communities beyond Kigali.”
Rubavu serves as a vital gateway for cross-border trade into one of Africa’s largest untapped markets, the Democratic Republic of Congo. Entrepreneurs from both sides of the border rely heavily on Rwandan banks to secure their deposits and facilitate transactions. The region’s dynamic economy—driven by imports, exports, hospitality, and agriculture—makes it an ideal location for NCBA’s value-driven banking model.
Welcoming the bank to the region, Vice Mayor for Economic Development of Rubavu District, Deogratius Nzabonimpa shared his appreciation: “The presence of NCBA Bank in Rubavu is timely and impactful. It boosts our district’s financial capacity, supports regional trade, and creates new opportunities for our residents and businesses to access quality banking services.”
This expansion reinforces NCBA’s vision of building a strong and sustainable banking network across Rwanda—one that is inclusive, forward-thinking, and committed to inspiring greatness in every community it serves.
{{About NCBA Bank Rwanda}}
NCBA Bank Rwanda is a subsidiary of NCBA Group, a banking group providing a broad range of financial products and services to corporate, institutional, SME, and consumer banking customers. NCBA Group operates a network of 115 branches in five countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Ivory Coast. Serving over 60 million customers, it is the largest banking group in Africa by customer numbers.
NCBA Bank Rwanda is currently present in Kigali with four branches and in other districts of Musanze, Nyagatare, Rubavu, and Kayonza. The bank will soon be unveiling another new branch in Rusizi.
Through its partnership with MTN Mobile Money Rwanda Ltd on “MoKash,” a digital savings and loan product, NCBA has attracted over 5 million customers making it the largest bank in individual retail deposits and the country’s biggest catalyst for financial inclusion.
The African Facts, an organization committed to publishing factual information about Africa, revealed that findings from its five-year investigation into the Habyarimana family show that Jean-Luc’s words align with actions — he, his mother Agathe Kanziga, and other family members maintain strong ties with members of both the FDLR and the CNRD-FLN.
The investigation began on June 3, 2020, after the organization observed another son of Habyarimana, Léon Habyarimana, alongside former FDLR Executive Secretary Callixte Mbarushimana, during court proceedings at the Paris Court of Appeal related to the extradition case of Félicien Kabuga.
It noted that Léon and Mbarushimana — who is suspected of involvement in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi — were conversing outside the courtroom, prompting suspicions that they may know each other. This led to further evidence-gathering to confirm the connection.
In a 2008 investigative report on France’s role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Maj Gen (Rtd) Paul Rwarakabije explained that during those years, Kanziga received significant funds from France’s intelligence service, the DGSE, to support the FDLR, which she handed over to Col Aloys Ntiwiragabo, one of the group’s founders.
When French Gendarmerie searched Kanziga’s home in 2016, they found Col Ntiwiragabo’s phone number in her notebook, confirming that they had been in contact for over 16 years. At the time, Ntiwiragabo had been residing in Orléans since 2006.
In 2011, Ntiwiragabo’s wife founded the Association des Rwandais de l’agglomération orléanaise (ARAO) in Orléans. Since 2016, Kanziga’s niece — Clémentine, daughter of Protais Zigiranyirazo — has served on its board. African Facts revealed that five other ARAO members work closely with Kanziga.
In its search for further proof, the organization obtained data from a computer seized by French investigators from the building where Jean-Luc resides. It contained a message from Léon to one of his cousins that included the names “Omar” and “Orléans.” “Omar” was an alias used by Col. Ntiwiragabo during his time in Sudan and while co-founding the FDLR.
Investigators also discovered a 2012 guest list and budget for an event held at the Habyarimana family home. Among the attendees were former senior officials from Habyarimana’s regime, including individuals convicted of genocide crimes and suspects such as Jean-Chrysostome Nyirurugo.
Nyirurugo appears in a Belgian police document listing members responsible for collecting funds for the PDR party, part of the MRCD coalition founded by Paul Rusesabagina. The FLN armed wing of MRCD carried out attacks near Nyungwe National Park in 2018 and 2019 and is still active in Burundi’s Kibira Forest.
Kanziga’s notebook also contained the phone number of Gen Janvier Mayanga, a senior officer in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) army who played a key role in coordinating operations between government forces, the FDLR, and the Wazalendo militia — especially in Masisi territory.
Gen Mayanga was instrumental in forming armed groups sharing an anti-Tutsi ideology, such as PARECO. PARECO fought alongside the DRC army against Gen Laurent Nkunda’s CNDP and later against M23, from 2006 onward.
His cooperation with the FDLR was first confirmed by UN experts in 2008 and 2009, when he was reported to be sourcing support for the group. Since the emergence of M23 in 2012, his role in the conflict has remained significant.
In December 2023, President Félix Tshisekedi appointed Gen Mayanga as the intelligence coordinator for the Wazalendo coalition. The group had recently been integrated into the DRC army’s reserve forces, reinforcing collaboration with the FDLR.
Following the M23’s capture of Bukavu in South Kivu in February 2025, Gen Mayanga, senior DRC officers, and Wazalendo members fled to Uvira, where the government temporarily relocated the provincial administration.
In early June 2024, Jean-Luc made a secret trip to Kinshasa, for a meeting individuals close to President Tshisekedi and senior DRC security officials. Although the purpose of the visit was not disclosed, it is suspected to have been related to supporting the FDLR.
A month after Jean-Luc’s trip, President Tshisekedi’s office announced that the DRC intended to host Rwandans temporarily residing in Niger, including Captain Innocent Sagahutu, who in 2017 unsuccessfully attempted to join the FDLR.
However, the DRC government abandoned the plan after a document — signed by presidential chief of staff Antony Nkinzo Kamole — approving the arrangement was leaked to the public.
Murangwa revealed that in the 2024 financial year, BPR Bank Rwanda Plc’s loan portfolio reached Frw 666 billion, reflecting an annual growth of 6%. This underscores the bank’s continued commitment to advancing Rwanda’s economic development.
As the bank celebrated its 50th anniversary, Minister Murangwa described the journey as transformative, emphasizing the bank’s role in shaping the country’s financial landscape.
He noted that BPR Bank Rwanda Plc has provided more than Frw 53 billion to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with 25% of that allocated to women entrepreneurs through initiatives like Ikamba.
“This program helps women entrepreneurs access capital and build their capacity,” Minister Murangwa said.
The bank’s impact extends beyond economic support. It plays a vital role in educating the nation through its Igire Initiative, which currently supports 840 young people, with 776 already having graduated from the program.
Minister Murangwa called on the bank to continue pioneering development-focused projects and innovations in the financial sector.
He emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive financial system and supporting environmentally sustainable projects, noting, “This will lead us to the growth of an inclusive financial sector for all Rwandans and foster development that positively impacts the country, particularly in reducing poverty, which is our primary shared goal.”
Looking ahead, the Minister said, “The next 50 years should be characterized by even greater innovation, impact, and transformation for Rwandans, the region, and at the international level.”
Patience Mutesi, BPR Bank Rwanda Plc’s Managing Director, expressed the bank’s deep appreciation for its customers. “We place great importance on listening to our customers. To all our customers wherever you are, thank you very much for trusting us and allowing us to partner with you in your investments,” she stated.
The bank has expanded its reach, now operating 73 branches, 2,242 agents, and 59 ATMs. BPR Bank Rwanda Plc’s growth is evident in its continued involvement in large-scale projects, including financing the construction of Bugesera International Airport, where it became the first local bank to provide such financing in 2017.
Mutesi also highlighted the bank’s recent financing efforts, including a consortium of financial institutions in Rwanda providing USD 322 million in guarantees for projects such as those led by UMCJV Ltd. Other initiatives include supporting food security through Africa Improved Foods and partnerships aimed at addressing climate change impacts and promoting renewable energy.
Additionally, the bank is committed to assisting small entrepreneurs by providing capital, investment training, and a particular focus on women entrepreneurs.
Rubagumya George, Chairman of the Board of Directors of BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, emphasized the bank’s remarkable growth, stating that it is now in a position to support any project aimed at national development.
Paul Russo, CEO of KCB Group Ltd, reaffirmed their ongoing commitment to delivering excellent services, advancing technology, collaborating with the government, and contributing to national development.
Customer testimonials underscored the bank’s positive impact. Louis Nsengiyumva, the bank’s first-ever customer who opened an account in 1975, shared how BPR Bank Rwanda Plc helped him safeguard his finances, reducing the risk of losing money that was traditionally kept at home.
Kabahizi Théoneste, representing Rwanda Agribusiness Supporters and Veterinary Consulting Services (RABSCO Ltd), also praised the bank, stating, “Fifty years of BPR Bank Rwanda Plc is a great journey. You cannot grow without working with a bank—you need it, you work well with it, you repay well, it grows, and you grow too. Without using a bank, it would be impossible to undertake major projects.”
Queen Kalimpinya, another client, commended the bank for its commitment to promoting women and girls, urging others to embrace financial institutions.
“Supporting women and girls shows that this is truly a people’s bank—a bank we can identify with. It’s a bank that, when you think about your goals in life and what you want to achieve, you see it is aligned with your aspirations,” she said.
BPR Bank Rwanda Plc has pledged to continue offering excellent services in both public and private sector investment, as well as providing payment and savings solutions for its customers.
CEO Butare James confirmed the move on August 8, 2025, during Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva’s visit to the company’s powdered milk facility and East African Granite Industries’ tile plant, both located in Nyagatare District.
Prime Minister Nsengiyumva praised the factories’ operations and encouraged them to scale up production to capture both local and international markets. He also urged Inyange to prioritize meeting domestic demand before pursuing exports.
“The Prime Minister advised us to explore ways to boost milk production, including working with farmers to increase yields so the plant operates at full capacity. He also stressed the importance of first serving the local market before expanding abroad,” Butare explained.
Since its completion, the Nyagatare plant has mainly produced industrial-grade powdered milk for manufacturers of ice cream, yogurt, bread, and other products. Butare assured consumers that Inyange is now preparing to release a household-friendly powdered milk—similar in quality and use to Nido—by September.
“We are now preparing to produce regular powdered milk for everyday use, and you will see it on the shelves very soon,” he said.
Inyange has obtained all required certifications for international trade and continues to work closely with farmers to boost raw milk supply. Since the plant began operations, the number of milk collection centers has grown from 43 to 139 nationwide.
Inyange has already secured markets for its industrial-grade powdered milk in countries such as Türkiye, Syria, Tanzania, Ghana, Oman, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Kenya, Qatar, Zimbabwe, Malawi, and many others.
Currently, the Nyagatare facility operates at just 31% of its total capacity, but management says production will grow steadily as operations mature and market demand expands.
The course was jointly conducted by the RDF and the Qatar Armed Forces, aiming to enhance tactical skills and operational readiness.
The pass-out ceremony was presided over by the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, General MK Mubarakh, and attended by Ali Bin Hamad, Chargé d’Affaires of the State of Qatar to Rwanda, alongside senior RDF generals and a delegation from the Qatar Armed Forces.
The intensive programme covered four key areas: VIP protection, counter-terrorism, anti-riot operations, and fighting in built-up areas (FIBUA). These modules were designed to equip RDF Military Police personnel with advanced capabilities to respond effectively to emerging security challenges, protect high-profile individuals, and maintain public order.
In his remarks, General Mubarakh expressed gratitude to the Qatar Armed Forces for their continued support and partnership. He highlighted the importance of such joint initiatives in strengthening the RDF’s operational capacity and regional security cooperation.
“Readiness in today’s security environment requires not only robust institutions but also well-trained personnel capable of responding decisively to a wide range of threats. It is within this context that we deeply value our bilateral cooperation with the Qatar Armed Forces, as we continue to promote mutual benefits and a shared commitment to addressing evolving security threats,” said the CDS.
Maj Nader Alhajri, Chief of Training, praised the RDF for its dedication to deepening the partnership between Qatar and Rwanda through joint initiatives such as this training programme.
“This course was conducted as part of the cooperation between our two countries. The skills acquired will enable RDF Military Police to perform their duties with increased efficiency and professionalism,” he said.
The successful completion of this training marks another milestone in the strategic partnership between Rwanda and Qatar, demonstrating their shared commitment to enhancing security capabilities and regional stability.
During a visit to Kirehe District on August 8, 2025, the Prime Minister toured the Nasho irrigation project, which covers the Nasho and Mpanga sectors.
The project was launched in 2015 by businessman Howard G. Buffett and officially inaugurated by President Kagame in 2020. With an investment of $54 million, the initiative aims to help local farmers cultivate crops despite frequent droughts.
A 3.3-megawatt solar power system was installed to operate irrigation pumps, and 144 houses were built to provide better living conditions for farming families.
The Nasho Irrigation Cooperative (NAICO) has 2,099 members farming 1,173 hectares with 63 rotating irrigation machines.
NAICO Chairman Christophe Rwisumbura explained that before irrigation, crop yields were low due to harsh sun and drought. The cooperative members used to plant small amounts of corn and beans, and soybeans were not cultivated.
“Now, with irrigation, farmers consolidate their land, receive expert advice, use improved seeds, and achieve higher yields,” said Rwisumbura.
He noted that yields have increased to over six tons per hectare for some crops, with 2.5 tons per hectare for soybeans. Farmers have also started growing pigeon peas and chilli peppers to increase income.
The cooperative recently generated profits of 1.3 billion Rwandan francs, which were invested in treasury bonds at the National Bank of Rwanda. Dividends are distributed to members every six months according to the size of their land.
Rwisumbura added, “Farmers now afford health insurance, improve their homes, and ensure students pay school fees on time, issues that were difficult before.”
He expressed optimism about increasing yields to nine tons per hectare, even during the dry season.
Farmer Violette Kansangire shared her experience, explaining that before irrigation, poverty was widespread due to long droughts. After irrigation began, her harvests increased from two tons to nine tons per hectare. She also expanded her farm to eight hectares and improved her living standards.
Another long-time resident of Nasho Sector thanked the President for helping secure irrigation support, which enabled him to rebuild his house and now plan to buy a motorcycle.
{{New road boosts market access
}}
Besides creating jobs and improving livelihoods through irrigation, a new nearly 35-kilometre paved road has been constructed, connecting the irrigated fields to main transport routes.
NAICO Executive Director Shyaka Nshuti said the road has greatly facilitated access to markets and made it easier for farmers to transport fertilisers.
“Before, poor roads limited buyers and transport options. Now, trucks carrying 40 to 50 tons can easily access the farms, making marketing much easier,” he said.
Prime Minister Nsengiyumva praised the progress made by Nasho farmers and urged them to increase production, aiming to raise yields from 10 to 12 tons per hectare. He encouraged youth to work diligently and assured that local authorities are ready to provide support.
“Keep going, we support you. Whatever you need, local authorities are there. This is a program strongly supported by the government. Tell us what you need, and we will assist. When you are happy, we are happy,” he said.
Currently, NAICO farms maize, soybeans, beans, pigeon peas, and chilli peppers, with some produce exported abroad.
Lungu, who served as Zambia’s head of state from 2015 to 2021, died on June 5, 2025, in Pretoria while undergoing medical treatment. Plans for his burial in Johannesburg on June 25 were halted by the Pretoria High Court just hours before a private funeral ceremony was set to begin.
The Zambian government had approached the South African court to block the burial in South Africa, arguing that Lungu, as a former president, should be accorded a state funeral in Lusaka, the Zambian capital, consistent with the tradition for all presidents since independence in 1964.
The dispute arose because Lungu’s family wished to bury him in South Africa without the presence of his successor, President Hakainde Hichilema, a longtime political rival. The family claimed Lungu did not want Hichilema to attend the funeral. However, the Zambian government insisted that as a former head of state, Lungu belonged to the nation and should be honoured with a state funeral at a designated site in Lusaka.
On Friday, the judge in Pretoria ruled that Lungu’s remains must be handed over to a representative of Zambia’s court system to facilitate repatriation. The decision brought relief to the government but was an emotional moment for Lungu’s family, with his sister Bertha Lungu visibly moved by the ruling.
The conflict over Lungu’s final resting place is the latest chapter in a prolonged political feud between the former president and his successor, which has now extended beyond Lungu’s death.
Initially, both the government and the family had agreed on a state funeral, but disagreements over the ceremony’s logistics and symbolism led to the family planning a private burial in South Africa. This prompted the government to seek legal intervention to reclaim control of the process.
In its court filing, the Zambian government argued that private wishes should not supersede national interests, citing a precedent from 2021 when the family of Zambia’s founding president, Kenneth Kaunda, also opposed a state funeral, but the court overruled them.
Dr. Bizimana was born in Burundi on February 10, 1968. He holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in International Relations from the Higher Institute of International Relations and Cooperation (IRIC) in Cameroon, where he conducted research on “Armed Conflicts and Environmental Protection in the Great Lakes Region.”
He began his career at Burundi’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2004, serving as Adviser to the Director General in charge for Europe and North America. After two years, he was appointed Deputy Director in charge of protocol at the Vice President’s office.
From 2007 to 2010, Dr. Bizimana served as First Counselor at Burundi’s Embassy in the United States. In February 2012, he became Director of Regional and International Organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, before briefly heading the department responsible for political parties.
In June 2012, Dr. Bizimana was appointed Ambassador of Burundi to Germany, serving until 2016 when he was appointed Ambassador to Russia. In 2022, he was named one of the special envoys of President Evariste Ndayishimiye.
Dr. Bizimana’s Position on the FDLR Amid Rwanda-Burundi tensions
As relations between Rwanda and Burundi deteriorated, Dr. Edouard Bizimana, a key political figure within President Evariste Ndayishimiye’s administration and other senior institutions, has consistently targeted Rwanda both openly and covertly.
Whenever the Rwandan leadership addresses regional conflicts, Dr. Bizimana is quick to respond, often driven by personal sentiments rooted in hostility and attempts to discredit Rwanda within the international community.
In early July 2025, President Paul Kagame told journalists that Rwanda was ready to comply with the commitments made in the peace agreement signed with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in Washington in June.
President Kagame clarified that although the DRC had signed prior agreements, it failed to honor them, and Rwanda was waiting to see if the DRC would dismantle the FDLR rebel group as promised in Washington.
At that time, Dr. Bizimana took to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), declaring that the FDLR was merely a pretext used by Rwanda. He suggested that President Kagame’s assertion about the DRC’s failure to comply with previous agreements reflected a lack of genuine intent, stating, “The FDLR card no longer works.”
On July 3, Rwandan Félix Mugenzi posted on X that Presidents Ndayishimiye and Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC were empowering the FDLR to continue plundering natural resources. Dr. Bizimana responded by claiming the rebel group no longer posed a threat.
He stated, “The FDLR is no longer a problem for Rwanda; it is just an excuse for Rwanda to exploit the DRC. Your lies will no longer stand.”
Mugenzi’s comments were based on multiple reports highlighting that the Burundi government had long collaborated with armed groups opposing the Rwandan government, including the FDLR—particularly since bilateral relations soured in late 2023.
While Dr. Bizimana insists that the FDLR no longer threatens the region, the United Nations Security Council’s peace and security committee has repeatedly indicated that the group remains a destabilizing force in eastern DRC and reaffirmed the need for its disbandment.
{{Burundian not attacking Rwanda faces backlash}}
On April 16, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, addressed the United Nations Security Council, stating that the 1994 genocide against the Hutu in Burundi should be officially recognized.
Frédéric Gateretse Ngoga, a Burundian ambassador serving at the African Union’s Department of Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, refuted Kayikwamba’s claim, arguing that no genocide against the Hutu occurred in Burundi during the time it was led by a Hutu president, Sylvestre Ntibantunganya.
Ambassador Ngoga, who previously served as Burundi’s ambassador, said, “My sister Kayikwamba, this is not true. Our president at the time was Sylvestre Ntibantunganya, a Hutu. On the other hand, read the UN reports. There was no genocide against the Hutu in Burundi.”
Following this, Dr. Edouard Bizimana sharply criticized Ambassador Ngoga, accusing him of working in favor of Rwanda, alleging that Ngoga had never condemned the statements made by Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, about Burundi.
Dr. Bizimana stated, “Frédéric Gateretse serves Rwanda’s interests, a country that attacks the DRC, and tramples the African Union’s principles while pretending to be its spokesperson. I have never heard him condemn the harsh words of Olivier Nduhungirehe against Burundi and the FNL.”
Subsequently, the DRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an apology clarifying that Minister Kayikwamba did not intend to assert that a genocide against the Hutu occurred in Burundi in 1994, but rather referred to the events of 1972.
{{Accusations against Uganda}}
On February 16, the Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, publicly expressed support for the reasons behind the M23 rebels taking up arms following their capture of Bukavu city.
At that time, General Muhoozi admired the fast advances, noting that Ugandans were not involved in the war.
In response, Dr. Edouard Bizimana stated, “Sending your troops to invade another country is unacceptable behavior. The higher you climb the tree, the worse your fall will be, and it exposes your vulnerability. The world is watching you.”
Later that month, Dr. Bizimana revealed that during the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) meeting held on February 8, Presidents Paul Kagame of Rwanda and Yoweri Museveni of Uganda expressed doubts about the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), saying, “This fuels a dangerous situation.”
The diplomat explained that Burundi has long demonstrated to the international community that the conflict in eastern DRC is different from what people think, implying that Rwanda and Uganda have involvement in the conflict.
He stated, “At the EAC and SADC meeting in Dar es Salaam, SADC leaders appeared troubled by Museveni and Kagame’s positions, raising questions about their commitment to peace in the DRC. Attempts to alter colonial-era borders will create further problems.”
Dr. Bizimana continued to criticize the Ugandan government, telling General Muhoozi that even if the troops he commands reached Kinshasa, they would retreat just as they did during the fight against Mobutu Sese Seko’s regime.
{{Withdrawal of SADC troops proved costly}}
In late 2023, troops from the Southern African Development Community (SADC), deployed from South Africa, Tanzania, and Malawi, were sent to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to combat the M23 armed rebel group, which was continuing to seize large territories.
These SADC forces had replaced troops from the East African Community (EAC), who were tasked with monitoring the opposing parties to facilitate peace talks held in Nairobi, Kenya.
President Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi, who led the EAC at the time, supported President Félix Tshisekedi’s call for EAC troops to directly engage M23 positions. He also deployed Burundian soldiers to the Masisi territory to assist the DRC forces, disregarding a regional decision made by heads of state.
In January 2025, SADC troops suffered defeats in Goma and Sake. By March, SADC heads of state decided to withdraw the troops, concluding that only political dialogue could end the conflict.
Following the defeats in North Kivu, Burundi maintained its forces in South Kivu, continuing to cooperate with DRC troops based on an agreement signed in August 2023.
In June 2025, Dr. Edouard Bizimana, then working in President Ndayishimiye’s office, expressed regret over the withdrawal of the majority of SADC forces from eastern DRC. He openly disagreed with the regional leaders who decided that political dialogue was the only solution.
Dr. Bizimana stated, “Supporting peace and security by withdrawing troops? What a defeat!”
It is clear that Minister Bizimana continues to take the same stance he had while serving in President Ndayishimiye’s office. This suggests that reconciliation between Rwanda and Burundi may face challenges soon, especially since such inflammatory statements undermined the promising talks initiated in March 2025.
The UN offices recently accused AFC/M23 of involvement in the deaths of 169 and 319 civilians in several localities within Rutshuru Territory between July 9 and 21, 2025. AFC/M23 dismissed the claims as unsubstantiated and politically motivated.
In a statement released on Thursday night, AFC/M23 questioned the credibility of the UN report, noting that many of the cited areas located within Virunga National Park are protected zones where farming is prohibited. The group argued that the alleged civilian massacres could not have occurred in “nonexistent farmlands,” calling into question the validity of the allegations.
AFC/M23 also criticised the UNJHRO’s investigative approach, accusing it of relying on sources aligned with the Kinshasa government without conducting independent verification. The group condemned the UN for allegedly releasing the report before AFC/M23 could respond, which they say fueled misinformation amplified by media outlets such as Reuters.
Furthermore, AFC/M23 challenged the OHCHR’s reliance on reports from armed groups and local organisations with no presence in the affected areas, including Wazalendo, FDLR, and the Rutshuru Territory Youth Council. The group called for an independent investigation and invited the UN offices to participate.
The statement also accused the UN of selectively ignoring documented atrocities committed by the Congolese government forces and their allies, including massacres of Banyamulenge and Hema communities, drone strikes on civilian areas, and repression of dissent.
“AFC/M23 strongly condemns this biased report, which propagates misinformation and undermines peace efforts. We hereby demand the immediate retraction of Report BCNUDH/OD/138/2025 and a public apology, as well as an independent investigation into the origins of these false allegations and internal accountability at the UNJHRO,” said the rebel coalition’s spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka.
The group has also urged the UN to address bias and ensure equal scrutiny of all parties involved in violations.
“AFC/M23 remains committed to protecting civilians and will not tolerate defamation or political weaponisation by institutions mandated to uphold impartiality,” he added.
The rebel group controls large swathes of territory in eastern DRC and is currently engaged in talks with the Kinshasa administration through a Qatar-led process aimed at ending the longstanding stalemate, which they attribute to the marginalisation and persecution of Kinyarwanda-speaking communities.
