Uvira : Wazalendo members accused of violence against the Banyamulenge community

The Banyamulenge community living in the city of Uvira, in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), continues to be the target of abuses committed by certain fighters from the Wazalendo armed groups (local militias supported by the Congolese authorities). Threats, looting, and attacks are increasing, plunging residents into fear.

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Homes looted and a population under pressure

According to several witnesses, fighters affiliated with the Wazalendo, under the command of Generals Mayele and Makanaki, have increased acts of looting in the Songo, Kabindula, and Nyamianda neighborhoods. Residents report nighttime raids, where armed men break in to steal valuables.

“They took everything: my phone, my computer, my clothes… I screamed, but no one dared to intervene. We live in constant fear,” said David M., a shopkeeper in Kabindula.

On Monday, March 24, 2025, a resident of Uvira reported being the victim of a similar burglary. Other Banyamulenge say they are regularly threatened and forced to leave their homes.

Local institutions also targeted

The looting is not limited to private homes. On Friday, March 21, 2025, Wazalendo fighters attacked the offices of the Ebenezer International Ministry in Uvira, stealing several pieces of electronic equipment, including computers and Motorola phones.

“We found the offices ransacked; everything had been taken. This is an unacceptable act of vandalism,” laments an organization official who requested anonymity.

The same day, the Panuel Free Parish Methodist Church was also burglarized.

Banyamulenge wrongly accused of supporting the M23?

Some Wazalendo fighters justify these attacks by accusing the Banyamulenge community of complicity with the M23 armed group, active in the east of the country.

A community leader refutes these accusations : “These are false allegations. The M23 does not operate here, but in Kamanyola. We are Congolese citizens and refuse to be stigmatized.”

Local authorities react

Faced with this rise in tensions, local authorities have expressed their concerns. The Deputy Governor of South Kivu, Jean Jacques Elekano, condemned this violence and called for respect for all communities.

“It is imperative that everyone be able to live in peace, without discrimination. We have increased surveillance and call on law enforcement to take firm action against these abuses,” he said in a statement.

Despite these calls for calm, the Banyamulenge are demanding concrete action to ensure their security. Many fear that this violence will worsen if no strict measures are taken.

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A MONUSCO peacekeeper checkpoint in Uvira, South Kivu ©️ SOS Médias Burundi