Musanze, Northern Province — A high-level delegation from the European Union, led by Ambassador Belen Calvo, on Tuesday visited the Mutobo Demobilisation Centre, gaining rare, first-hand insight into the realities of armed groups operating in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda’s ongoing efforts to promote peace and reintegration.

The delegation was received by leaders of the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC), including Chairperson Valerie Nyirahabineza, Vice Chairperson Jacques Nziza, and Commissioner Jean Vianney Gatabazi, alongside Governor Maurice Mugabowagahunde and security officials.

Officials presented Rwanda’s structured approach to disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration, which has supported thousands of former combatants from armed groups since 2001. The visit comes just days before the discharge of Phase 76 beneficiaries on 31 March 2026.

Addressing returnees, Ambassador Calvo Uyarra emphasised listening to their experiences:

“It is encouraging to return to this demobilisation centre. We wanted to hear your aspirations after repatriating to Rwanda from the FDLR.”

She stressed the EU’s concern over the crisis in eastern DR Congo:

“We firmly believe there is no military solution. Only political dialogue addressing root causes can deliver sustainable peace.”

She highlighted EU engagement through international efforts:

“The European Union supports ongoing processes, including the Washington Peace Accord, the Doha process, and African Union mediation.”

She also called for rejection of extremist ideology:

“We are deeply concerned by genocide ideology and urge you to reject it.”

A key moment came through testimonies from former FDLR members, including Makuza Anastase and Niyonzima Jean Damascene. They described how false religious teachings and extremist narratives were used to control civilians in the forests.

“False prophecies… and an ideology promoting Hutu unity were spread to keep people trapped,” they said.

Makuza added:

“We were taught to attack Rwanda and create a Hutu-only state. We later realised this would lead nowhere. Today, we live in peace.”

They urged European countries to ensure accountability for individuals linked to genocide ideology, stressing that justice is key to lasting peace.

In the visitors’ book, the delegation praised Rwanda’s efforts and encouraged remaining fighters to lay down arms, describing reintegration as essential to sustainable peace.

Despite progress, the FDLR remains a security concern. Officials emphasised that its complete dismantling is critical for regional stability.

The visit underscored Rwanda’s role as a model for reintegration and reaffirmed international commitment to peace in the Great Lakes region.

End.