Burundian Troops Reportedly Move Toward Minembwe Amid Ongoing Clashes in South Kivu.

On Thursday, April 16, 2026, large numbers of Burundian soldiers reportedly arrived in Bibogobogo, in Fizi territory, South Kivu, while heading toward Minembwe.

The troops are said to have come from Baraka before moving through Bibogobogo with the objective of reaching Minembwe, where they are allegedly joining FARDC and Wazalendo forces in operations against Twirwaneho.

Reports claim the campaign includes attacks that have led to destruction of homes and looting in some areas.

Since December 2025, repeated attempts by FARDC, Wazalendo and Burundian forces to take control of Minembwe, an area held by Twirwaneho, have reportedly failed.

Non governmental reports also allege the use of drones in operations that have caused civilian deaths, loss of livestock, and damage to homes, churches, and a local radio station.

Due to the ongoing fighting involving Burundian forces, FARDC, and Wazalendo, many Banyamulenge civilians are reported to have fled villages including Kalingi, Kalongi, Kakenge, Bidegu, Mikenge, and Rubemba.

Image source: Al Jazeera (via Google search)