On Monday, 11 August 2025, at the Eastern Province headquarters, Governor Pudence RUBINGISA welcomed the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC) Council of Commissioners. The delegation included Chairperson Hon. Valérie Nyirahabineza, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Jacques Nziza, Hon. Jacqueline Muhongayire, Hon. Jean Marie Vianney Gatabazi, and Hon. Dancille Nyirarugero.

The meeting served a dual purpose: to officially introduce the newly appointed Commissioners to the provincial leadership and to reinforce cooperation between the two institutions in supporting ex-combatants as they transition to civilian life.

The Governor, together with the Provincial Security Council, held an exchange with RDRC Commissioners on the Province’s ongoing initiatives. They discussed practical ways to ensure ex-combatants are fully integrated into all provincial programmes and committed to strong collaboration aimed at improving the wellbeing of beneficiaries. Importantly, this partnership will also be embedded in the Province’s planning framework, ensuring sustainable inclusion and long-term impact.

Later in the day, the Commissioners visited Ntsinda Village in Muhazi Sector, Rwamagana District — a settlement for demobilised ex-combatants — where they engaged in heartfelt discussions with residents, exploring their challenges and working together towards sustainable solutions.

The Commissioners praised the ex-combatants for their invaluable role in liberating Rwanda and for their continued contribution to peace and stability. They encouraged them to remain exemplary citizens and active problem-solvers in their communities.

“You played a historic role in freeing this nation,” Chairperson Nyirahabineza told the residents. “Today, Rwanda is a safe and peaceful home because of your sacrifice. Continue to protect that legacy — in your families, in your villages, and in your hearts.”

They also urged the ex-combatants to actively participate in all Reserve Force meetings, noting that the structure serves as their official representative body.

Theophile Rwihimba, the leader of Rubirizi Village, expressed deep gratitude both to the RDRC and to President Paul Kagame for his leadership during the liberation struggle and in securing lasting peace.

“We know better than anyone how far this country has come,” Rwihimba said, his voice thick with emotion. “You have come to see us, and for that we thank you deeply. We will always love and support the President who led us through the fire and brought us into the light of peace.”

Rwihimba described his village as a model of unity and resilience: “In our community, there is no idleness, no hatred. Nothing will ever take us by surprise to destabilise Rwanda — not while we are here to protect it. Even for those of us who no longer have all our limbs, our spirit to safeguard our country remains unbroken.”

The visit also brought encouraging news: the RDRC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting ex-combatants’ children with access to vocational training. When an ex-combatant is unable to study, they can nominate their child to benefit from the programme, with full tuition covered by the Commission.

“Opportunities should not stop with us,” Hon. Nyirahabineza remarked. “They must reach the next generation — so that the story of courage, resilience, and service to the nation lives on.”

The day closed with renewed determination and a shared vision: those who once defended Rwanda on the battlefield will now defend it through unity, productivity, and the quiet but powerful work of building their communities.