On the morning of Friday, July 4, 2025, a brief but intense clash erupted near Mikenke center, in Mwenga Territory, South Kivu, between Burundian troops and the Twirwaneho militia. Reports indicate that Burundian soldiers were forced to flee after a confrontation with the armed group.
The fighting occurred unexpectedly and lasted only a short time. According to local sources, it began when Wazalendo fighters encountered Burundian forces, leading to a gun battle in which some were injured.
An eyewitness explained that Burundian troops met Twirwaneho members on their way toward Rwitsankuku, and a confrontation ensued. Twirwaneho quickly overpowered the Burundians, forcing them to retreat.
“Twirwaneho was already on a mission when they encountered Burundian troops. They clashed, and the Burundians ran for safety into the bushes,” said one local source.
While the exchange of fire was not very intense, the Burundian soldiers ended up fleeing the area.
This incident comes after a period of relative calm in Mikenke, with the last clash in the region occurring in June.
The ceasefire has also held in other nearby areas controlled by Twirwaneho and M23, including Minembwe, Rugezi, and Kamombo.
