The border between Uvira in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Bujumbura in Burundi reopened on February 23, 2026, after almost two months of shutdown resulting from a precarious security situation. This reopening came without prior announcement but was met with considerable enthusiasm from the local populations on both sides of the border. The closure began following the control of Uvira by the M23 rebel group, which is allegedly supported by Rwanda, leading to increased tensions and insecurity in the entire region.

The sequence of events began on December 10, 2025, when Uvira fell under the control of the M23. It wasn't until January 19, 2026, that the city was retaken; however, it took more than a month for authorities to agree to reopen the border. The reopening marks an important step for local economies and daily life, allowing for the resumption of cross-border activities that had been halted during the period of insecurity.

According to Congolese authorities speaking to RFI on the reopening day, nearly 10,000 individuals crossed the border on the morning of February 23. This surge of people indicates a strong desire for reconnection and economic activity, reflecting the critical role that this border plays in facilitating trade and movement between the DRC and Burundi, which had been significantly affected by the closure. Ongoing monitoring of the situation will be crucial to ensuring stability and security in the region moving forward.