Laurence Mujawayezu, a former corporal of the FDLR, is living testimony that peace, reconciliation, and national rebuilding are possible when individuals choose repatriation over violence and hope over fear.

After spending years in the jungles of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo with the FDLR, Mujawayezu made a voluntary decision to return home in 2003. Upon arrival in Rwanda, she was received with dignity and directed to Mutobo Demobilisation Center, where she found other former combatants—some of whom she had known during her time in the forest.

“At Mutobo, I realised that life was possible again,” she recalls. “Even though fear was still inside me, I could see that Rwanda offered a future.”

After completing the demobilisation process, Mujawayezu was reintegrated into civilian life and reunited with her family in what was formerly Kibirira Commune, now part of Ngororero District. The reunion was deeply emotional. Her family had been falsely informed that she was dead. Seeing one another again felt unreal— “as if we were seeing a ghost,” she explains.

With close accompaniment from the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission, she received reintegration support that enabled her to restart life, regain confidence, and rebuild trust within the community.

That trust soon translated into leadership. Local residents encouraged her to stand for election as a village leader. She was elected and went on to serve more than two consecutive terms, leading her community in Muhororo Sector with commitment, inclusiveness, and without conflict.

Today, Laurence Mujawayezu serves as a pastor in the AEBER Church. With access to education and supportive leadership, she studied Theology and earned a diploma. Her children are in school, including her eldest, who studies at the University of Rwanda with state support.

Reflecting on propaganda spread by those who continue to oppose Rwanda, Mujawayezu is resolute:

“We were misled. We were told there was no peace in Rwanda and that the country belonged only to a few. In reality, we were the ones left behind—in both mindset and development.”

She now calls on those still hiding in the jungles of DR Congo to abandon fear and return home voluntarily.

“Rwanda is our country. It is peaceful and welcoming. Let us come back and build it together.”

Laurence Mujawayezu’s journey stands as a compelling reminder that reintegration is not only about laying down arms—it is about restoring dignity, rebuilding trust, and contributing meaningfully to national development.

End.