Burundi has once again deployed troops to the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) via Gatumba, reinforcing its forces already engaged in combat against the M23 rebel group.
This deployment follows an agreement reached in September 2023 between Presidents Évariste Ndayishimiye and Félix Tshisekedi, allowing Burundian troops to enter the DRC to support FARDC, FDLR, and other armed groups in the fight against M23. The agreement officially acknowledged Burundi’s military presence in the DRC, which had previously been unofficial.
Since then, the Burundian National Defense Forces (FDNB) have sent between 8,000 and 12,000 soldiers. Some of these troops suffered defeats in North Kivu and have now regrouped in Bukavu and its outskirts. Meanwhile, five battalions remain stationed in the mountainous regions of Fizi and Uvira.
Additionally, the 22nd TAFOK Battalion has been deployed to Bukavu to reinforce Burundian troops already there, ensuring that the city does not fall into M23’s hands. This marks the 16th Burundian battalion sent to Congo, tasked with countering M23 while coordinating with FARDC and FDLR in a broader effort that also threatens Rwanda’s security.
According to RFI, the Burundian military regiment sent to eastern Congo consists of four brigades, each made up of three battalions, and is commanded by General Pontien Hakizimana, also known as “Mingi.”
The ongoing battle between the Congolese government and M23 has reportedly resulted in significant casualties among Burundian soldiers, including high-ranking officers.
There are also reports that M23 has captured several Burundian soldiers. However, President Ndayishimiye has denied these claims, asserting that those captured are actually fighters from RED-Tabara, an armed rebel group operating in South Kivu.
To replace fallen soldiers, treat the wounded, and reinforce those refusing to fight against M23, President Ndayishimiye has ordered additional troop deployments to Congo. Reports suggest that each Burundian soldier in the DRC receives a payment of $5,000.
