Kamonyi, Rwanda – Community leaders and key stakeholders from Kamonyi District have convened for a high-level consultative meeting, organised by the District in partnership with RDRC, aimed at strengthening partnerships and improving the livelihoods of former soldiers, including those formerly associated with armed groups.

The dialogue, led by Mayor Dr Sylivere Nahayо, RDRC Vice Chairperson Maj Gen (Rtd) Jacques Nziza, and Commissioner Jacqueline Muhongayire, brought together influential district stakeholders—sector leaders, private sector representatives, faith leaders, members of the Reserve Force, and beneficiaries of reintegration programmes.

At the heart of the discussions is a shared national priority: ensuring that all former combatants are sustainably reintegrated into communities and contribute productively to Rwanda’s development.

In his keynote remarks, Maj Gen (Rtd) Jacques Nziza underscored the importance of dignity, inclusion, and collective responsibility. He emphasised that all former soldiers, including those repatriated from armed groups, must be supported to rebuild their lives within their communities, noting that their decision to return to Rwanda reflects trust in the country’s stability and future.

He further highlighted that Rwandan identity remains a unifying foundation, calling on all ex combatants—including those repatriate from the jungles of eastern DRC—to embrace shared national values. He urged stakeholders to ensure that even limited resources are used strategically and inclusively, enabling ex-combatants to establish sustainable livelihoods.

Participants engaged in structured group discussions to identify persistent challenges facing reintegrated individuals and to propose practical, locally driven solutions. The approach reflects a shift towards more community-owned reintegration strategies aligned with national development priorities.

A powerful testimony from Mr Erasto Munyemana, a former member of an armed group in the DRC, reinforced the impact of Rwanda’s reintegration framework. He spoke of the opportunities he has received since returning home, including professional assignments abroad, and described his current life as stable and peaceful with his family. He encouraged those still in the DRC to return, assuring them of safety, dignity, and opportunity in Rwanda.

“After leaving the FDLR and returning to Rwanda, I was given many opportunities, including professional assignments abroad. Today, I live in peace with my wife and children. I urge those still in the forests of eastern DRC to come home—Rwanda is safe, and the opportunities are real.” He said. 

The Kamonyi meeting forms part of an ongoing nationwide engagement strategy by the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC), designed to deepen collaboration with local authorities and partners. The initiative also seeks to mobilise reintegrated individuals as advocates for peace—encouraging others still in armed groups to repatriate voluntarily.

As Rwanda continues to prioritise security, unity, and inclusive development, such engagements demonstrate a sustained commitment to leaving no one behind.

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