The Real Reasons Why MRDP–Twirwaneho Is Referred to as the “Savior of the Banyamulenge” in the Hills of Ndondo and the Greater Mulenge Area
In the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, particularly in the Bijombo highlands located in Uvira Territory of South Kivu Province, insecurity remains one of the most persistent challenges that has troubled local communities for many years.
This region has been marked by repeated attacks against the Banyamulenge community, reportedly carried out by the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) in collaboration with various armed groups, including Wazalendo, FDLR, P5, Gumino, Imbonerakure, as well as Burundian forces. These attacks are alleged to have aimed at displacing and weakening the community, often resulting in the destruction of homes and health facilities. In some instances, reports suggest that certain health centers were destroyed by FARDC forces. The consequences have been severe, including loss of property and large-scale displacement of civilians. Despite these conditions, MRDP–Twirwaneho is frequently described as having fought on the side of local populations, contributing to the survival and cohesion of some communities.
Bijombo and its surrounding areas, such as Mitamba, Gongwa, and Murambya, have reportedly been major battlegrounds between MRDP–Twirwaneho and government forces (FARDC), often supported by allied armed groups, including Burundian troops.
Information from residents and various local sources indicates that repeated clashes and attacks have significantly affected civilians, forcing many to flee their homes, with some seeking refuge in forests or neighboring countries.
In discussions surrounding the security of the region, MRDP–Twirwaneho is frequently mentioned in reports from eastern DRC. The group is described as playing a role in protecting civilians, particularly Banyamulenge communities and others who claim to be at risk from ongoing violence involving armed groups associated with the Kinshasa government.
Some residents of Bijombo state that, because of its involvement in defending civilians, the group has come to be referred to as their “savior.” During attacks reported in the past week against Banyamulenge communities in the area, MRDP–Twirwaneho is said to have intervened, repelling the attackers, who reportedly retreated toward Uvira and Bujumbura in Burundi.
Reports from the area further indicate that ongoing insecurity has had profound effects on civilian life, including mass displacement, looting of property, and disruption of development activities.
Human rights organizations have consistently expressed concern over the impact of these attacks on civilians and have called for thorough and independent investigations into the allegations made by all parties involved.
Although the security situation has shown fluctuations over time, it is widely acknowledged that a lasting solution to the crisis in Bijombo and other parts of South Kivu cannot be achieved through military means alone.
Many observers emphasize that inclusive and in-depth dialogue involving all relevant stakeholders—including the DRC government, community representatives, and armed groups linked to the conflict—would be a crucial step toward achieving sustainable peace.
As insecurity in Bijombo continues to pose serious challenges, local communities persist in calling for lasting peace, an end to attacks, and effective measures to ensure the protection of civilian lives.
Despite differing narratives from various sides regarding the situation in the region, the shared aspiration remains the restoration of stability, security, and reconciliation in the highlands of South Kivu.
