Bujumbura, Burundi, 12th December 2025 – The Secretariat of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) wishes to express its profound concern over the increasingly troubling security situation in South Kivu, particularly following the capture of Uvira by the AFC/M23 coalition, a strategic town close to the DRC–Burundi border. The ongoing conflict risks destabilising the whole region. It has initiated widespread displacement, forcing many individuals and large numbers of families to flee to Rwanda and Burundi, leading to a rise in refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) who are now in urgent need of assistance.

The ICGLR vehemently condemns the violence inflicted upon innocent civilians. We urge all involved parties to take immediate steps towards de-escalation and to honour their responsibilities in line with international humanitarian law. It is essential to … (Download full statement)