KIRUNDO, BURUNDI — September 2, 2026 — Reports have emerged of an exchange of gunfire between Rwandan and Burundian forces at Lake Cyohoha, along the border between the two countries, on the evening of Tuesday, September 1, 2026.
According to information from the Burundian side, the incident reportedly began after children who had gone fishing on the lake crossed what is understood to be the boundary separating Rwandan and Burundian waters.
Reports from Burundi indicate that Rwandan soldiers stationed to patrol the waters followed the children and allegedly entered the section of the lake considered to be on the Burundian side.
The incident reportedly prompted Burundian forces to intervene, leading to an exchange of gunfire between the two sides.
Sos Media Burundi reported that the incident took place near Mount Cimo, in Kiri Zone, Kirundo Province, northern Burundi.
Information from the Burundian side further indicates that warning shots were fired first, before Rwandan soldiers allegedly responded with gunfire.
A local official from the Imbonerakure, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the Rwandan soldiers later returned to the Rwandan side after a short period.
As of the publication of this report, there have been no confirmed reports of deaths or injuries, and no major property damage has been reported.
Residents living near the lake reportedly fled their homes during the exchange of gunfire. Some residents began returning after the situation calmed down.
Lake Border Raises Potential for Disputes
Lake Cyohoha, known as Lake Cohoha in Burundi, is one of the bodies of water shared by Rwanda and Burundi. The international boundary runs through the lake, leaving sections of its waters on either side of the border.
Fishing is an important livelihood for communities living around the lake. As a result, crossing the maritime boundary can potentially trigger disputes between local residents and security forces.
Information from Burundi suggests that incidents involving fishermen crossing the boundary on Lake Cyohoha have occurred before, partly because it can be difficult for people on the water to clearly identify the exact line they are not supposed to cross.
At the time of publication, the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) had not issued an official statement explaining the reported incident or presenting the Rwandan side’s account.
Rwandatribune also attempted to contact the Burundi National Defence Force (FDNB) for comment.
We called its spokesperson, Brigadier General Gaspard Baratuza, but he could not be reached by telephone.
It is important to note that, so far, the reports have not been independently verified by a neutral source.
The reported incident at Lake Cyohoha comes amid a period of strained relations between Rwanda and Burundi, with both countries having previously exchanged accusations over security concerns along their shared border.
Rwandatribune continues to follow developments and will provide updates, particularly if new statements are issued by the Rwandan or Burundian authorities or by the armed forces of either country.
Icyitegetse Florentine
Rwandatribune.rw
