Uvira report links 14,400 rapes and displacement to M23

A new government report on abuses in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is drawing attention to the human cost of the AFC/M23 occupation of Uvira, with authorities documenting widespread violations against civilians, including sexual violence.

Presented on April 7 by Human Rights Minister Samuel Mbemba, the report states that more than 14,400 women were victims of rape during the period when rebel forces controlled the city and surrounding areas. The findings come amid broader concerns raised by international observers about abuses during the offensive in South Kivu, including those documented by Human Rights Watch.

The report situates these violations within a wider security crisis marked by armed clashes, bombings, kidnappings, looting and summary executions. According to Congolese authorities, more than 300,000 people were displaced during the occupation, a figure that aligns with earlier official estimates reported by state media such as ACP.

Beyond the immediate violence, the government says the conflict has had lasting social consequences, particularly for women and children. Many displaced women reportedly became heads of households under precarious conditions, while more than 12,000 children saw their education disrupted due to insecurity, school closures and forced displacement.

Authorities also report the discovery of several mass graves following the withdrawal of AFC/M23 forces. According to the government, sites in areas such as Mayi Moto and Kilomani contained dozens of bodies, though independent verification of these figures remains limited.

The occupation of Uvira began on December 10, 2025, after clashes between AFC/M23 rebels, Congolese forces and local militias. The group later announced its withdrawal on January 17, 2026, describing the move as a unilateral confidence-building measure linked to peace efforts in Doha.

Congolese officials say the report is intended to document alleged human rights violations and support possible legal proceedings. The findings contribute to growing scrutiny of civilian protection in eastern DRC, where conflict dynamics continue to expose populations to significant risk.