Minembwe: Drones Damage Hospital and Civilian Homes as FARDC and Burundian Troops Accused of Seizing Banyamulenge Cattle
At a time when hopes were rising for a reduction in hostilities and a cessation of fighting in the Minembwe area following the meeting between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda held in London, United Kingdom, residents of the region say they continue to face severe consequences of insecurity and military operations that disrupt their daily lives.
Reports from Minembwe indicate that a coalition comprising the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), Burundian troops, the FDLR armed group, and Wazalendo militias allegedly launched attacks using unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), causing damage to civilian infrastructure and health facilities.
According to local sources, some of the drones exploded in populated areas, destroying numerous homes and causing significant damage to Minembwe General Hospital, located in Kiziba. Residents say the attacks have generated fear and anxiety, particularly among families already struggling with the long-term effects of conflict in the region.
Minembwe Hospital is considered a vital healthcare facility serving communities across the territories of Fizi, Mwenga, and Uvira. Damage to the hospital could have serious consequences for healthcare delivery and the well-being of residents who already face limited access to medical services.
Additional reports from Bivumu, an area south of Minembwe Centre, indicate incidents of cattle theft targeting the Banyamulenge community. Although the exact number of cattle seized has not yet been confirmed, local sources estimate that the number is in the dozens.
Residents allege that the cattle were taken by FARDC soldiers operating from the Lulenge area in Fizi Territory, South Kivu Province. The loss of livestock remains a major concern, as cattle breeding constitutes the backbone of the economy and livelihood of many Banyamulenge families living in Minembwe and its surrounding areas.
There are also reports suggesting that the drones used in the attacks originated from the Point Zéro area in Uvira as well as from Burundi.
These incidents come at a time when many residents had hoped that ceasefire commitments and resolutions adopted during the international meeting in London would contribute to restoring peace and stability in the hills of Minembwe and neighboring areas. However, local residents say ongoing military activities continue to fuel tension and concerns about deteriorating security conditions.
Regarding the seized cattle, community sources report that MRDP–Twirwaneho immediately initiated efforts to track and recover the livestock with the aim of returning it to its rightful owners. However, no detailed information has yet been released regarding the outcome of those efforts or the number of animals that may have been recovered.
Observers following developments in the region warn that attacks affecting civilian infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and private property could further deepen the humanitarian challenges and psychological distress faced by communities that have already endured years of conflict and instability.
While various parties continue to express support for peaceful solutions and political dialogue, residents of Minembwe maintain that their most urgent needs remain lasting security, protection of civilian infrastructure, and an end to all actions targeting civilians and their property.
Minembwe Capital News continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide further updates on the impact of these attacks and the evolving security situation in Minembwe and surrounding areas.
