Since 1994, Minova has grown from a village to a large town, primarily due to the influx of refugees (from Rwanda in 1994, from Masisi in 1991-1996 and other surrounding areas) and from the fighting associated with the First and the Second Congo wars and subsequent continued fighting in this eastern area. As of 2012 Minova had grown to incorporate the former village of Butando and Buzi-Bulenga to the northwest.