Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, has cast doubt on Burundi’s ability to play a neutral mediation role in the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, despite Bujumbura’s recent election to chair the African Union.
Speaking on Thursday, February 19, while receiving European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib, Nduhungirehe said Burundi’s direct involvement in the conflict makes it difficult for the country to act as a credible mediator.
“Burundi could be problematic in mediation efforts,” he said, referring to initiatives aimed at restoring stability in eastern DRC.
The minister emphasized that the mediation process led by Togolese President Faure Gnassingbe, who was appointed by the African Union, should continue without Burundi’s participation. He also expressed confidence in the team of five facilitators supporting Togo in the peace process.
Nduhungirehe described as “concerning” what he called Burundi’s negative involvement in the conflict, accusing Burundian forces of encircling the Banyamulenge community in South Kivu Province — a situation he said has worsened humanitarian conditions and restricted aid access for civilians.
“In that context, it is difficult for Burundi, even if it assumes the AU chairmanship, to take part in mediation,” he stated.
Rwanda has consistently criticized Burundi’s role in the conflict, alleging that its troops are fighting alongside Congolese government forces and armed groups, including the FDLR — a militia composed in part of individuals linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
Burundian forces are reported to have been deployed in eastern DRC for at least two years, with estimates suggesting up to 20,000 troops operating in various areas and leading military operations.
In early December, the AFC/M23 rebel group accused the Burundian army of shelling Kamanyola in South Kivu from Bujumbura Province and leading attacks in Uvira and its outskirts — claims that further complicate regional efforts to de-escalate tensions.
The remarks underscore growing diplomatic sensitivities surrounding mediation efforts in eastern DRC as regional actors navigate both military realities and political leadership roles within continental institutions.
