MINEMBWE ONCE AGAIN IN A CRITICAL SITUATION: Civil Society Raises Concerns Over Deteriorating Security Affecting Civilians
The Civil Society of Minembwe has issued a statement expressing deep concern over the worsening security situation in the area, located in South Kivu Province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The statement indicates that between 07 and 12 June 2026, acts of violence and armed confrontations escalated significantly, placing civilians in severe danger.
According to the statement signed by the President of Civil Society in Minembwe, Mufashi Santos, several localities including Minembwe Centre, Kalingi, Bidegu, Kalongi, Gakenke, Rubemba, and Ilundu have been affected by ongoing armed violence, which has further destabilized civilian life in the region.
The Civil Society reports that on 12 June 2026, two aerial attacks were carried out in the Minembwe Centre area. These incidents reportedly caused significant destruction to civilian property, including houses and other infrastructure belonging to non-combatants.
Although the exact number of casualties has not yet been officially confirmed, local residents report widespread fear, with many people forced to flee their homes in search of safety.
Prior to these airstrikes, heavy fighting had already been ongoing for several days in areas such as Kalingi, Bidegu, Kalongi, Gakenke, and Ilundu, where conflicting armed groups have reportedly been battling for control of various territories.
The clashes have resulted in severe consequences, including loss of life, injuries to many individuals, destruction of civilian homes, and the killing of livestock, which serves as a primary source of livelihood for many families.
Images circulating on social media show injured civilians, including women and children, further heightening concern among residents and observers following the security situation in Minembwe.
The Civil Society of Minembwe also reports that many economic and social activities have been brought to a standstill due to insecurity. Shops, markets, agricultural activities, livestock farming, and inter-community movement have all been heavily disrupted.
Many families are currently living under extremely difficult conditions, with residents expressing constant fear of being attacked or caught in ongoing hostilities.
Local residents continue to emphasize that the security crisis has become a major burden on their daily lives, particularly affecting children, women, and the elderly, who are among the most vulnerable to the consequences of conflict.
In its statement, the Civil Society of Minembwe recalled that international humanitarian law protects civilians and their property during armed conflict, and that direct attacks against civilian populations are strictly prohibited under international law.
It called for:
- An immediate cessation of hostilities and all acts of violence, especially in populated areas;
- An independent and impartial investigation into the reported incidents to establish the truth;
- Unhindered access for humanitarian organizations to reach populations in need of assistance.
The Civil Society further stated that it will continue to gather information and monitor developments in the region in order to ensure that the voices of the population are heard and that the protection of civilians remains a priority without discrimination.
As insecurity continues to plague Minembwe and other highland areas of Fizi territory, residents are calling for lasting solutions that can restore peace and stability, allowing them to resume normal life.
Minembwe remains one of the key security flashpoints in eastern DRC, where civilians continue to express their primary demand: sustainable peace and full protection of their rights and safety.
