After more than 30 years in the jungles of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), HAKIZIMANA Pierre Celestin has returned to Rwanda, embracing peace and stability after decades of uncertainty with the FDLR, an armed group that originated from those who fled after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

HAKIZIMANA, now 60, made the courageous decision to repatriate with his family, recognising that he had wasted precious time in the DRC’s forests, clinging to false promises.

“I spent over three decades in the jungles of the DRC with the FDLR, believing in illusions,” HAKIZIMANA shared. “My children were denied education and a future. I chose to return to Rwanda to give them hope and stability.”

His experience echoes that of many who realise the truth too late—while war raged on in the forests, Rwanda was moving forward, building a nation of prosperity and peace.

“At 60, I understood that the FDLR was built on lies. The conflict seemed never-ending, yet Rwanda was thriving in peace. I made the bold choice to come back home,” he added.

Now settled in Rwanda, HAKIZIMANA has separated himself from a life of uncertainty and embraced a future filled with promise.