Uvira, DR Congo ; 2 September 2025 Tensions in the eastern Congolese city of Uvira escalated sharply on Tuesday after reports emerged that Wazalendo militias had blocked key access routes, including the Mulongwe and Kavimvira bridges.
In a message circulated early this morning, residents particularly members of the Banyamulenge community were urged to exercise extreme caution. “We have learned that Wazalendo have blocked Mulongwe and Kavimvira bridges. It is important for Banyamulenge to remain vigilant and avoid passing through those areas,” the alert read.
The warning comes amid already fragile ethnic relations in Uvira. The atmosphere deteriorated further on Monday following the arrival of FARDC General Olivier Gasita, himself a Banyamulenge. His presence has been strongly opposed by Wazalendo fighters, who accuse him of betraying Bukavu to the AFC/M23/MRDP coalition, and brand him an enemy of the Congolese people.
For years, Banyamulenge communities have faced systematic violence in the DRC. Rights groups have documented killings, burnings, and brutal assaults, often carried out solely because of their Tutsi identity or Kinyarwanda language. Observers say Gasita’s deployment to Uvira, though sanctioned by Kinshasa, has reignited fears of renewed persecution, as Wazalendo militias intensify their threats and hostility toward Banyamulenge civilians.
Analysts warn that the situation underscores not only the fragile security environment in South Kivu but also the deep-seated ethnic divisions that continue to fuel instability across eastern Congo.
