On 9 February 2026, Gicumbi District became a focal point of Rwanda’s reintegration journey as local leadership welcomed a high-level delegation from the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC), led by Commissioner Muhongayire Jacqueline. The visit formed part of RDRC’s continued field engagement aimed at assessing the living conditions of former soldiers reintegrated into civilian life and strengthening collaboration to address their socio-economic needs in a sustainable manner.

The engagement underscored the importance of bringing national policy closer to communities, ensuring that reintegration is not only a completed administrative process, but a lived reality reflected in dignity, opportunity, and social inclusion. Through dialogue with district authorities and partners, the delegation reviewed progress made in supporting former soldiers while identifying areas requiring renewed attention.

A key moment of the visit took place in Ruzizi Village, Giti Sector, where Commissioner Muhongayire met with former soldiers now fully embedded in community life. She commended them for their contribution to Rwanda’s development and urged them to remain active guardians of unity, resilience, and national cohesion. Emphasising shared responsibility, she encouraged beneficiaries to make prudent use of available opportunities, noting that sustainable reintegration thrives where personal commitment aligns with institutional support.

The visit also highlighted Gicumbi District’s exemplary collaboration with the District Reserve Forces and various partners, which has translated reintegration policy into tangible outcomes. Through coordinated efforts, former soldiers have accessed housing, employment, land, livestock, and social protection mechanisms—key pillars for long-term stability and self-reliance.

These interventions have enabled hundreds of beneficiaries to rebuild their lives with dignity, reinforcing the principle that peace is sustained not only through security, but through inclusive development and economic empowerment. The progress observed reflects a reintegration model that is responsive, locally grounded, and results-oriented.

Looking ahead, RDRC and district leadership reaffirmed their commitment to sustained follow-up, with a focus on expanding livelihood opportunities, strengthening cooperative initiatives, supporting beneficiaries with specific vulnerabilities, and ensuring responsible management of achieved gains. Continuous engagement through field visits and dialogue remains central to this approach, fostering trust, accountability, and shared ownership of progress.

The Gicumbi visit stands as a compelling example of Rwanda’s commitment to transforming reintegration into resilience. By aligning leadership, partnership, and community participation, RDRC and its partners continue to ensure that former soldiers are not only welcomed back into society, but are empowered to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s unity and development.