Burundi has launched a fresh military deployment into eastern Democratic Republic of Congo as security conditions continue to deteriorate following the fall of Uvira to AFC/M23 fighters.
The move comes only weeks after Burundian troops suffered major setbacks alongside FARDC forces and allied Wazalendo fighters during intense battles in South Kivu, forcing part of Burundi’s contingent to withdraw from Congolese territory.
Security sources indicate that between December 29, 2025 and January 4, 2026, new Burundian military reinforcements were transported into eastern Congo to strengthen operations in South Kivu and Tanganyika provinces.
The reinforcements were reportedly sent to strategic locations including Bibokoboko, Point Zéro and Milimba in Fizi Territory, as well as Kalemie, the capital of Tanganyika Province, which has become increasingly important in the regional security equation.
According to reports from SOS Médias Burundi, the operation began from naval military facilities in Rumonge along the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Convoys of military trucks carrying troops and equipment were seen moving toward deployment points before soldiers were transported across the lake.
Sources familiar with the operation said the movements were conducted mostly at night or before dawn in an apparent effort to avoid public attention and maintain operational secrecy.
A Burundian military source who requested anonymity revealed that before the latest troop deployment, Burundian naval forces had already transported FARDC soldiers and Wazalendo fighters back into Congo after they fled into Burundi following the capture of Uvira by AFC/M23.
The source stated that Burundian military boats carried out at least two transport missions toward Kalemie in order to reorganize and redeploy those forces back to the battlefield.
The renewed deployment reflects growing concern within the Burundian government over the rapidly changing balance of power in eastern Congo, where AFC/M23 has continued gaining momentum in several strategic areas.
Military analysts believe Burundi is attempting to reassert its influence in the conflict after the political and military embarrassment linked to the loss of Uvira, a city that had been heavily defended by Burundian troops and FARDC units.
Although Bujumbura has not officially disclosed the number of troops involved in the latest operation, security sources suggest the main objective is to reinforce two Burundian battalions still stationed in Congo and to strengthen defenses around Kalemie.
Concerns are also rising that Kalemie could become the next major flashpoint if AFC/M23 continues advancing deeper into strategic territories in the east.
Recently, Révérien Ndikuriyo stirred controversy after commenting on Burundi’s involvement in Congo.
He declared: “Congo is like our home; we go there whenever we want.”
The statement generated widespread debate across the region, with critics questioning Burundi’s growing military footprint inside Congolese territory.
Additional reports indicate that some of the newly deployed soldiers were assembled at Stade ya Vyizigiro before being transported aboard high-speed military boats operating on Lake Tanganyika.
As the conflict escalates, regional observers warn that the increasing involvement of neighboring countries could further complicate efforts to restore peace in eastern Congo.
For civilians living in conflict-affected areas, the expansion of military operations continues to fuel displacement, fear and uncertainty, while diplomatic efforts to contain the crisis remain fragile.
