DR Congo-Burundi border reopens after two-month closure

February 23, 2026
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The border post between Uvira in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Gatumba in neighbouring Burundi reopened on Monday after more than two months of closure.

Burundian authorities shut down the crossing since Dec. 10 after Uvira fell under the control of the March 23 Movement rebel group, cutting off a key transit point for traders and residents.

In January 2026, the DRC government regained control of Uvira, the second-largest city in South Kivu province.

The city had served as a provisional administrative centre after the provincial capital, Bukavu, fell to the M23 in February 2025.

Authorities from both countries agreed to resume cross-border movement under regular procedures, local media reported.

“Those currently in Burundi can cross today in complete tranquillity,” migration authorities said in a statement cited by local outlets.

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