Over 84,000 people have fled eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to Burundi following a rebel offensive by the M23 group, which briefly captured the strategic city of Uvira, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

Humanitarian Crisis at Burundi Border

The UN warns that Burundi has reached a critical point as local resources are overwhelmed by the influx. More than 200,000 refugees have now crossed into the country since early December.

“Women and children are particularly affected, arriving exhausted and severely traumatised,” said UNHCR officials. “Some pregnant women have not eaten in days.”

Many displaced families are sheltering under trees or in makeshift camps, with minimal access to water, sanitation, and protection from the elements. Around half of the refugees are children under 18, alongside numerous women, including pregnant mothers.

M23 Seizes Uvira, Then Withdraws

The exodus began on December 5, accelerating after M23 took control of Uvira on December 10. The group announced its withdrawal days later, calling it a “trust-building measure” for US- and Qatari-led peace efforts.

Congolese authorities remain skeptical, claiming M23’s move is a “diversion” intended to relieve pressure on Rwanda. Local reports suggest M23 personnel were still present in the city after the withdrawal announcement.

Growing Rebel Influence in Eastern DRC

The Uvira offensive extends M23’s territorial gains this year, after capturing Goma in January and Bukavu in February, giving the group control over mineral-rich areas and severing supply routes for Congolese forces along the Burundi border.

The fighting has killed more than 400 civilians since early December, displaced over 200,000, and forms part of a broader conflict in eastern DRC, where over 100 armed groups operate, displacing more than seven million people.

The offensive also complicates peace efforts, coming shortly after DRC and Rwanda presidents met US President Donald Trump to reaffirm their commitment to a peace agreement. Washington condemned the attack, warning of consequences for what it described as Rwanda’s violation of the accord.