Buhumuza : tensions and insecurity in the provinces of Cankuzo, Muyinga and Ruyigi

While the war in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues, its repercussions are being felt in Burundi, particularly in the provinces of Cankuzo, Muyinga and Ruyigi. From searches in refugee camps to unusual military movements and rising ethnic tensions, the security situation is worrying the local population.

INFO SOS Médias Burundi

In these regions, residents are expressing their fears about rising tensions as elections approach. They denounce the intensification of ethnic-based speeches, the increase in night patrols and arbitrary arrests. They are calling for a return to calm to avoid an escalation towards a social crisis.

One of the major concerns is the searches carried out in Congolese refugee camps, particularly those of Bwagiriza and Nyankanda, located in Ruyigi province. These camps, which mainly host Congolese from the Banyamulenge community, are subject to increased control operations.

According to our sources, these searches are motivated by the fear of an infiltration of fighters through Burundi, under the cover of refugee status. Two searches have already taken place since the beginning of the month, leading to the arrest of more than 60 individuals.

On the other hand, the camps of Kavumu (Cankuzo) and Gasorwe (Muyinga) do not arouse as much suspicion as those of Ruyigi.

Unusual military movements

Another disturbing fact observed in the region is the intensification of movements of military vehicles. Trucks of the Burundi National Defense Force (FDNB) from different provinces converge on the Mutukura military camp in Cankuzo before continuing their journey to the DRC.

According to witnesses, more than thirty of these trucks have passed through this training center since the beginning of February.

Ethnic discourse and rising tensions

In urban centers and town centers of these three provinces, discussions on the conflict in the DRC are becoming more heated, particularly in bars and bistros. Ethnically-based, sometimes virulent, remarks are emerging, accusing the Tutsis in particular of wanting to extend a so-called “Hima empire” in the Great Lakes region of Africa and sub-Saharan Africa. These polarizing discourses are fueling tensions and divisions within the population.

Restoration of night patrols and demonstrations of force

In addition, night patrols are increasing, justified by the need to “preserve peace” in the run-up to the 2025 elections.
The Imbonerakure (members of the CNDD-FDD youth league) have also resumed their sports sessions every Saturday morning, presented as “demonstrations of force”.

Faced with this worrying situation, the local population is urging authorities to intervene to ease tensions. It calls on political actors to exercise restraint and to promote mutual respect and social cohesion in order to avoid a crisis with unpredictable consequences.

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The map of Burundi according to the new administrative division that establishes the province of Buhumuza