The Banyamulenge community, particularly advocates for peace and survival in Australia, extends profound gratitude to General Michel Rukunda, widely known as Makanika. His unwavering dedication and sacrifice in defending the Banyamulenge people—especially families in Minembwe and across South Kivu—continue to inspire resilience and hope.
For decades, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been plagued by instability, with various armed groups vying for control over territory, resources, and political influence. Among the communities disproportionately affected by this prolonged conflict is the Banyamulenge, a Tutsi-speaking group native to South Kivu. This community has endured repeated attacks, forced displacement, and systemic discrimination, making their survival a constant struggle.
General Makanika, a former officer of the Congolese national army (FARDC), defected to defend his people against the persistent threats posed by militias such as the Mai-Mai and elements within the FARDC who have been accused of complicity in targeted attacks against the Banyamulenge. His leadership has provided a crucial line of defense, preventing further massacres and ensuring that displaced families have a chance to rebuild their lives. His actions have positioned him as both a protector and a symbol of resistance against the forces seeking to erase the Banyamulenge identity from the region.
“The struggle for the survival of the Banyamulenge people is not just about our community—it is about standing against injustice everywhere. We call upon the world to recognize our plight and take action to ensure that peace and security become a reality for all persecuted communities. General Makanika’s courage and commitment are a testament to the strength of those who refuse to be erased.” – Jean De Dieu, CEO-Officer, Ambassador of Peace for the Banyamulenge in Australia
Beyond our appreciation for General Makanika, we extend our deepest gratitude to all peace defenders worldwide. Special recognition is due to Twiranewo and every individual and organization tirelessly advocating for our community’s survival and self-defense.
The conflict in eastern DRC is complex, rooted in historical grievances, ethnic tensions, and competition over land and resources. The Banyamulenge have often been portrayed as foreigners despite their longstanding presence in the region. This narrative has fueled hostility and justified violence against them, with little intervention from the Congolese government or international bodies. Rather than succumbing to the relentless cycle of violence, the Banyamulenge have chosen resilience.
Despite facing attacks from armed groups that seek to annihilate their presence in the region, they continue to fight for their rights and recognition as Congolese citizens. The Mai-Mai militias, known for their brutal tactics, have carried out large-scale assaults on Banyamulenge villages, killing civilians and looting homes. Reports indicate that certain elements within the FARDC have also failed to protect the community and, in some cases, have actively participated in these attacks. This ongoing crisis underscores the urgent need for national and international intervention to ensure the protection of vulnerable populations.
We reaffirm our commitment to justice, peace, and the protection of the Banyamulenge people, who have endured unimaginable hardships. Their resilience in the face of adversity serves as a testament to their determination to secure a future free from persecution and fear.
The international community must not turn a blind eye to the atrocities committed in eastern Congo. Advocacy efforts must be amplified to hold perpetrators accountable and to push for policies that promote peace and reconciliation. The Banyamulenge, like all Congolese citizens, deserve the right to live in safety and dignity without the constant threat of extermination.
