More than one hundred Congolese refugees were received early this morning by Rwandan authorities at the Bugarama/Kamanyola border crossing, following heavy and continuous bombardments across several areas of South Kivu.
According to local sources, the attacks mainly targeted Kamanyola, a locality currently under the control of the AFC/M23.
A Massive Exodus Triggered by Intense Bombardments
At dawn, loud and repeated explosions shook the surroundings of Kamanyola, plunging residents into widespread panic. The bombardments, described as sustained and precisely targeted, forced many families to flee their homes and seek safety across the Rwandan border.
Authorities in Bugarama quickly set up emergency measures to welcome the new arrivals, who were mostly women, children, and elderly people. Exhausted refugees reported walking long distances under the constant threat of explosions.
A Region Under Persistent Tension
Kamanyola, located in the Walungu territory, has remained a sensitive and strategic zone for months. The presence of AFC/M23, an armed group active in eastern DR Congo, has heightened tensions and exposed civilians to recurring violence.
Humanitarian organizations have repeatedly warned about the growing fragility of the security situation in South Kivu, fearing that the fighting could spread to other nearby border communities.
Response Expected From Congolese Authorities
So far, the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has not issued an official statement regarding the incident. However, observers highlight the urgent need for swift action as the humanitarian and security situation continues to deteriorate.
Many residents who stayed behind fear a potential escalation of clashes in the coming hours or days.
Calls for Civilian Protection
Human rights groups are calling on all parties involved in the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and ensure the protection of civilians. The situation remains extremely volatile, and further population movements are expected if the bombardments continue.
Joshmishumbi