On 4 March 2026, Nyabihu District held a community sensitisation activity in partnership with the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC) and other partners. The activity focused on supporting the reintegration of former combatants, promoting national unity, and encouraging the peaceful voluntary return of those still in armed groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The meeting brought together faith leaders, private sector representatives, cooperative leaders, local government officials, former leaders, volunteer youth, and families with relatives still living in the forests of eastern DRC. Participants shared a common objective: to encourage those still associated with the FDLR to return to Rwanda voluntarily and reintegrate into civilian life.

Nyabihu leaders highlighted the district’s location along the DRC border, particularly in the Kabatwa area, where armed groups have previously recruited young people. The Mayor stressed that border districts have a responsibility to take an active role in prevention, reintegration, and community support.

Speaking to participants, RDRC Deputy Chairperson Maj Gen (Rtd) Jacques Nziza emphasised that reintegration is a shared responsibility.

“Former combatants should not be seen as the responsibility of the Commission alone,” he said. “Local leaders, partners, and communities must work together to help them settle, find opportunities, and live as other citizens do.”

He added that negative perceptions and social barriers continue to affect reintegration outcomes and called for stronger collaboration between district authorities, local leaders, and development partners.

Participants also discussed the role of faith-based organisations, including visits by Congolese religious leaders to the Mutobo Demobilisation Centre. These visits were described as helpful in explaining Rwanda’s reintegration process and in encouraging peaceful repatriation.

Community members with relatives still in armed groups shared their concerns and expressed their willingness to continue outreach and sensitisation efforts. They said personal testimonies remain an important tool in convincing those still in the jungles that returning home is safe and supported.

Group discussions focused on the challenges faced by returnees, such as access to jobs and social acceptance, as well as practical actions that local government and partners can take to improve reintegration and support further voluntary repatriation.

Nyabihu was identified as the second-highest district in Rwanda hosting returnees from FDLR, after Rubavu District, which accounts for more than 70 percent of returnees nationwide. District and RDRC officials confirmed that similar sensitisation activities will continue to strengthen reintegration, address remaining challenges, and support peace and stability across the country.

End.