As the Congolese government forces (FARDC) and their allies, including Burundian troops, continue shelling and destabilizing eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the Citizen Movement for Change, AFC/M23, continues to fight for the rights of the people and the truth of sustainable development in the highlands of South and North Kivu.
Note: Company, Blog, Church websites are free.
In areas such as Fizi, Uvira, Bijombo, and Minembwe—where the Kinshasa government has failed for years to restore peace or protect civilians—AFC/M23 has taken on the responsibility of defending innocent lives and confronting terrorist groups hiding behind FARDC, which continues to be accused of acts of genocide, hatred, and ethnic targeting.
Since last week, AFC/M23 military operations have intensified in the mountains of Kahololo and Rugezi, clashing with Burundian forces and rebel militias supported by FARDC.
In all these areas, AFC/M23 continues to demonstrate its ability to protect the people, offering hope to those trapped in isolation and senseless war.
Communities in Bijombo, Rurambo, and Minembwe—where AFC/M23 is actively working to restore peace—have begun to express renewed trust in the movement.
While Burundian troops claim to have entered these areas to “assist,” many locals see it as merely reinforcing the Kinshasa regime’s oppression of dissenting voices.
The meeting held in Uvira on May 14 between FARDC and Burundian forces did not prioritize the interests of the people. Instead, it was aimed at strengthening military cooperation to force AFC/M23 out of the territories it controls—without addressing the reasons behind the local population’s continued support for the movement.
AFC/M23 is not seeking to conquer territory, as state-owned media may suggest. Rather, it opposes inequality, looting, and governance rooted in tribalism and regionalism. Its goal is to establish a government that respects human rights, empowers citizens, and eliminates the corruption flowing from Kinshasa.
Claims that AFC/M23 is linked to terrorism are lies meant to mislead the international community.
The group “Twirwaneho” has long been accused of targeting opposition voices, opposing reconciliation, and fueling ethnic division. AFC/M23 seeks lasting peace—not one imposed by foreign military forces.
Despite the military strength brought in by FARDC and its allies, AFC/M23 and the citizens who support it are determined to continue fighting for liberation, peace, justice, and genuine independence.
The solution to the Kivu crisis cannot come from foreign weapons but from dialogue, self-determination, and listening to the people.
