Since March 2026, armed clashes between the AFC/M23 in the DRC have intensified across several territories, resulting in widespread displacement, destruction of livelihoods, and increased pressure on already vulnerable host communities. The growing use of airstrikes and drones has heightened the unpredictability of hostilities, placing civilians at greater risk and triggering repeated displacement (Relief Web).
According to UNHCR, Uganda faces a large-scale, complex, and protracted refugee displacement crisis driven by armed conflict and insecurity in Sudan and the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The Sudan crisis began in April 2023 following the outbreak of conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Since 5 December 2025, more than 100,000 Congolese refugees have fled to Burundi following the escalation of conflict between the AFC/M23 armed group and the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in South Kivu and are settled along the Burundi–DRC border (Reuters).
As of 31 May 2026, Tanzania continues to receive Congolese refugees through the NMC Reception Centre in Kigoma, who are subsequently transferred to Nyarugusu Refugee Camp, which currently hosts approximately 88,277 refugees (UNHCR).
As a follow up to the CEA 241 regional appeal, the forums in DRC, Uganda, Tanzania and Burundi are planning to respond to this crisis.