Security Situation in Mulenge, Homeland of the Banyamulenge
In the highlands of Mulenge, known as the ancestral homeland of the Banyamulenge in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), recent reports continue to circulate regarding insecurity and ongoing unrest in the area.
According to information from local sources, explosions were heard in the early morning hours, allegedly resulting from drone strikes that reportedly targeted different areas of Mulenge. Although official casualty figures have not yet been confirmed, local residents report that a young child was injured during the incidents.
These events are said to have occurred amid ongoing military activities in various areas near Minembwe, involving the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC), in coordination with Burundian forces, as well as Wazalendo militias and the FDLR.
Further reports indicate that FARDC positions allegedly located at a site known as Point Zero are frequently linked to drone-related operations. Other unverified accounts suggest additional operational bases may exist in Kalemie in the DRC and Bujumbura in Burundi. There are also claims of military mobilization in Bicumbi and Mikenke, while the MRDP–Twirwaneho movement reportedly maintains control over several areas of Minembwe, including its central locality.
In a separate development in the region, approximately 25 cattle belonging to Banyamulenge herders were reportedly looted in the area of Murutigita. The livestock is said to have been moved toward Lulenge in Fizi Territory, South Kivu Province.
Overnight, additional drone attacks were reportedly recorded in several locations, including Bidegu, further heightening concern among residents who say insecurity in the area remains a serious challenge.
It is also reported that FARDC troops and allied groups were seen in significant numbers in Buhonde, near Mitamba, an area that has recently witnessed sustained military activity allegedly aimed at preparing attacks against civilians in Ndondo, within the Bijombo groupement in Uvira Territory.
All these reports come amid growing fear among local populations of possible renewed attacks on Banyamulenge-inhabited villages, although no official statement has yet been issued to confirm or clarify these allegations.
Mulenge itself is a vast mountainous area inhabited by the Banyamulenge, located in South Kivu Province. Its hills and settlements include Ndondo, Rurambo, Rugezi, Bibogobogo, Mibunda, Cyohagati, and Minembwe, which is often considered the administrative center of the region.
As information continues to emerge from different sources, residents of the Mulenge highlands remain in a state of uncertainty, hoping for stability and lasting peace in a region long affected by recurring conflict.