Hundreds of residents took to the streets of Uvira on Tuesday morning, 16 December 2025, to publicly welcome the AFC/M23 coalition, expressing support and optimism over what they described as improved security in the city, located in South Kivu province.
Videos and eyewitness accounts showed large crowds gathered along major roads, chanting and carrying placards welcoming AFC/M23. Participants represented several communities, including the Bafuliro, Banyamulenge, Bavira, Bashi, and Babembe.
Some banners read: “Welcome to Uvira, AFC/M23. We, the people, are pleased.”
During the rally, residents voiced hope for stability and new governance, while sharply criticizing the government in Kinshasa. They accused state authorities of neglect, abuses against civilians, and failing to ensure security and basic rights.
Several speakers said the population had endured years of insecurity marked by fear, violence, and looting, and stressed their desire for lasting change.
The demonstration comes days after AFC/M23 took control of Uvira on 9 December 2025, following clashes that led to the withdrawal of a coalition of forces including the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC), Wazalendo armed groups, the FDLR, and Burundian troops.
Analysts say the public gatherings reflect widespread civilian frustration with prolonged insecurity in eastern Congo and a strong demand for durable peace, effective governance, and greater political inclusion.
Residents also called on the international community to closely monitor developments in eastern DRC and to prioritize political dialogue, human rights, and the protection of civilians.
Events in Uvira underscore the ongoing impact of insecurity and governance challenges in eastern Congo, highlighting the urgency of sustainable, negotiated solutions rooted in peace, accountability, and justice.
