"The border crossing between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi reopened on Monday after a closure of more than two months, bringing relief to those who had fled Uvira amid AFC-M23 clashes. Kavimvira crossing, a vital trade route linking Uvira and Bujumbura, resumed operations as Congolese authorities reasserted control over the area. Footage shows people carrying their personal belongings as they arrive at the Kavimvira–Gatumba border. “We fled to Burundi, but surprisingly, in Burundi, we were harassed. People died in droves, and those who remained are still suffering,” Aluta Alice, a resident of Uvira, said. She shared her appreciation for the government’s efforts in reopening the border and pleaded for assistance in bringing those who remain in Burundi back home. An advance by the M23 group in South Kivu province had led to a significant influx of Congolese refugees into Burundi. On Monday, many of the refugees returned to their hometowns after the crossing reopened. “We thank God for seeing this day as we return to our true home today [...] We endured many hardships, but now we are finally returning home,” said Uvira resident, Joseph Mukama. Every day, hundreds of people cross the Kavimvira and Gatumba border for trade. However, for more than two months, this vital activity had ceased, jeopardising the livelihoods and daily lives of many families in the city. “We are extremely grateful to President Tshisekedi, may God help and bless him. We are now home, in Congo,” said trader Benjamin Mabwire. On Sunday, the governor of South Kivu province announced the reopening, which signals a tentative stabilisation of cross-border flows in the east and restoration of security and local commerce after recent unrest. The DRC accuses Rwanda of backing the M23, a rebel group, but Kigali has repeatedly denied this."