In the East of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), fierce fighting has persisted over the weekend in the high plateaus of Minembwe, located in South Kivu province. The clashes are primarily between the Twirwaneho fighters, who are allied with the AFC/M23 political-military movement supported by Kigali, and the Congolese army, which is receiving assistance from elements of the Burundian army and the Wazalendo militia. The combat zone is approximately one hundred kilometers east of the city of Baraka, indicating that the fighting is taking place in a relatively remote area that has seen increased tensions.

Local sources report that the exchanges of fire have been particularly intense, leading to the displacement of several thousand individuals from their villages in recent weeks. These internally displaced persons (IDPs) are now living under dire conditions, struggling with limited access to basic assistance such as food and medical care. This ongoing conflict has led to significant humanitarian concerns, as it marks one of the most violent episodes recorded in the region since the beginning of the year, highlighting the volatility of the situation in South Kivu.

The implications of this violent conflict extend beyond immediate humanitarian crises, as it reflects the broader instability in the region. The alliance between Twirwaneho fighters and the AFC/M23 raises questions about foreign involvement in DRC's internal conflicts, particularly given the support from Rwanda. As armed confrontations continue, the potential for escalation threatens not only local security but also regional peace, reiterating the need for international attention and intervention to stabilize the area and provide relief to those affected by the violence.