Burundi’s military hospitals in Bujumbura are struggling to cope as dozens of soldiers wounded in intense clashes with AFC/M23 rebels continue to arrive from South Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Overcrowding has become widespread, with some facilities accommodating multiple patients per bed, reflecting the severe toll of the ongoing fighting.
Since early last week, the Burundian army, alongside FARDC units and pro-government Wazalendo militias, has faced fierce resistance from AFC/M23 forces across strategic zones in South Kivu. The rebels have captured several key positions, prompting concerns over Burundi’s operational strategy and its ability to sustain its deployed forces.
AFC/M23 Advances Toward Uvira
Reports indicate that AFC/M23 fighters, who withdrew from Kamanyola town last week, have moved deeper into South Kivu, reaching the Sange area roughly 30 kilometers from Uvira, a major urban center near the Burundian border. This rapid advance has placed significant pressure on Burundian units, contributing to a rising number of casualties and operational strain.
Burundian Hospitals at Capacity
The Military Hospital of Kamenge in Bujumbura is currently treating 87 injured soldiers, according to SOS Médias Burundi. Many are wearing red sports attire and are heavily bandaged, highlighting the severity of the combat wounds.
Other hospitals, including Tanganyika Care Polyclinic, have also been receiving injured personnel. Medical staff report that some beds are shared by as many as three soldiers, a situation demonstrating the strain on Burundi’s medical infrastructure.
Witnesses describe incoming soldiers as exhausted, with visible signs of fatigue and injury after days of continuous fighting. The surge of wounded personnel has forced hospitals to implement emergency measures to manage the influx and ensure adequate care.
Troop Withdrawals to Minimize Further Losses
Unofficial sources suggest that the Burundian military command has ordered troops to return home to prevent additional casualties. Starting December 8, 2025, a large number of soldiers, along with Imbonerakure youth militia and Wazalendo fighters, have been retreating from Uvira toward Bujumbura.
Returning forces are reportedly disarmed at the border and escorted to designated facilities within Burundi to maintain security and account for all personnel. Observers note that the withdrawal highlights concerns within the Burundian army about the sustainability of their operations in South Kivu amid mounting losses.
Border Security Measures Intensified
To manage the influx of troops and maintain order, Burundi has strengthened border security. Reinforcements have been deployed to ensure safe passage for returning soldiers while preventing unauthorized movement of weapons or personnel. These measures aim to stabilize the situation as the military evaluates the next steps in its engagement with AFC/M23 forces.
Burundi’s Original Deployment
Burundi initially deployed approximately 20,000 troops to South Kivu, focusing on securing regions surrounding Minembwe, Uvira, Fizi, and Mwenga. The mission aimed to restrict supply and travel routes used by the Banyamulenge community, including key roads leading to markets and medical services.
The recent setbacks, combined with the growing humanitarian impact on injured soldiers, have raised pressing questions about Burundi’s role in the DRC conflict. Analysts warn that continued clashes may exacerbate regional tensions and challenge the stability of the Great Lakes area.
Regional Security Implications
The influx of Burundian casualties and the apparent advances by AFC/M23 in South Kivu underscore the fragility of peace and security in the region. With both sides sustaining losses, the conflict risks further escalation, potentially drawing in neighboring states and affecting cross-border humanitarian conditions.
International observers and regional organizations are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need for dialogue and coordinated efforts to prevent additional violence. The capacity of Burundian military hospitals to manage the ongoing casualties will remain critical as the conflict evolves.
Burundi’s military hospitals in Bujumbura are at breaking point as wounded soldiers continue to return from South Kivu following heavy clashes with AFC/M23 rebels. The rapid territorial gains by rebel forces, combined with significant Burundian casualties, have prompted troop withdrawals and intensified border security measures.
As the humanitarian and strategic pressures mount, the situation highlights broader concerns about Burundi’s involvement in the DRC conflict and the potential impact on regional stability in the Great Lakes area. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether military operations can continue safely or if renewed diplomacy and reassessment are required to prevent further escalation.
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