Minembwe, a region located in South Kivu of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), is known for its diverse population, including the Banyamulenge community. This remote area has recently become the epicenter of political and military turmoil as the armed group Twirwaneho publicly declared, for the first time, its alliance with AFC/M23 following the death of General Makanika.

A Shift in Power Dynamics

Twirwaneho, an armed group operating from Mulenge in South Kivu, announced that it now controls Minembwe and its surrounding areas. The group claims to defend the rights of the Banyamulenge people and protect them from persecution and violence. This declaration came shortly after the death of General Michel Rukunda, known as Makanika, which triggered a series of airstrikes by the Congolese army (FARDC) and fierce clashes between Twirwaneho fighters and government forces.

According to Oscar Mukiza, a local resident of Minembwe, Twirwaneho fighters successfully drove FARDC troops out of several strategic military positions in and around Minembwe. “They were expelled from all their bases in Minembwe,” Mukiza stated. One of the most intense battles occurred in Mikenke, where a major military camp and a refugee site for the Banyamulenge were guarded by FARDC soldiers. Twirwaneho eventually took control of the area.

Reports indicate that FARDC has since regained some of these positions, although neither side has officially confirmed this. Attempts to reach the Congolese military and government officials for comments have so far been unsuccessful.

Why Now? The Strategic Alliance with AFC/M23

Twirwaneho’s decision to publicly align with AFC/M23 marks a significant development in the complex political landscape of the region. In its statement, Twirwaneho justified the alliance by referencing the DRC’s constitutional principle of self-defense. The group expressed solidarity with other Congolese factions fighting for the rights of marginalized communities.

This public alliance is unprecedented, according to Oscar Mukiza. “This is the first time Twirwaneho has openly confirmed its partnership with AFC/M23,” he noted. The statement further emphasized Twirwaneho’s support for AFC’s objective of establishing lawful governance in the DRC.

However, the Congolese government has labeled Twirwaneho as an ethnically motivated militia involved in insurgent activities, attacks on government forces, and violence against other communities. The new leader of Twirwaneho, General Charles Sematama, formerly the deputy of General Makanika, is among those sanctioned by the U.S. and the European Union for alleged human rights abuses and rebellion.

Strategic Implications and Regional Tensions

The alliance comes at a time of heightened tension in the Kivu regions, where a fragile ceasefire had been holding. Mukiza explained that Twirwaneho’s leadership strategically chose this moment to reveal their alliance, feeling more confident and powerful after Makanika’s death. “They believe that if they had declared this earlier, they would have faced stronger opposition. Now that they feel more powerful, they’ve made it public,” Mukiza explained.

With AFC/M23 reportedly advancing toward Bukavu and Uvira, and Twirwaneho solidifying its control over Minembwe, South Kivu faces a potential major power shift. If Uvira were to fall, a vast portion of South Kivu would be under the control of the Twirwaneho and AFC/M23 coalition.

Regional and International Reactions

The international community continues to call for peaceful dialogue to resolve the ongoing conflict, including negotiations with M23. However, the Kinshasa government remains firm in its stance against engaging in talks with M23.

As the situation in Minembwe and the wider South Kivu region continues to develop, the people living in these contested areas face increasing uncertainty and fear. The future of this conflict remains unpredictable, as political and military tensions continue to rise.