On Monday, 12 August 2025, at Nyagatare District headquarters, Mayor Stephen Gasana welcomed the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC) Council of Commissioners. The delegation was led by Chairperson Hon. Valérie Nyirahabineza, accompanied by Vice Chairperson Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Jacques Nziza, Hon. Jacqueline Muhongayire, Hon. Jean Marie Vianney Gatabazi, and Hon. Dancille Nyirarugero.

The high-level meeting focused on the wealth of development opportunities available within Nyagatare — and how ex-combatants, who are scattered across the district, can play a more active role in harnessing them.

Following the discussions, the Commissioners travelled to Nyagatare Sector, where they visited Mirama II Village, home to a vibrant community of demobilised ex-combatants. Here, they engaged directly with residents, listening to their experiences and identifying obstacles that continue to affect their livelihoods.

Residents emphasised the need for more inclusive participation in government programmes to help address some of their pressing welfare challenges.

Chairperson Nyirahabineza, speaking on behalf of the Commissioners, underscored the enduring responsibility of those who once took up arms to defend Rwanda:

“A person who fought for this country should remain a shining example in their village and their sector. You deserve to live a life of dignity and hope — but that hope must also come from your own active engagement in building your future.”

The ex-combatants expressed deep gratitude for the government’s support, especially for the improved living conditions they now enjoy, and conveyed heartfelt thanks to President Paul Kagame.

“We owe everything to our President and to the nation that stood by us,” one resident said. “Because of that, we live in peace and security today.”

Mayor Gasana reminded the Commissioners of Nyagatare’s strategic role in Rwanda’s growth, describing it as a district rich in potential.

“Nyagatare is blessed with vast opportunities,” he said. “It is one of the regions that must continue to support Rwanda’s food security. We want our ex-combatants to be part of this drive — not just as beneficiaries, but as active contributors.”

The visit ended with renewed commitments from both local leaders and the RDRC to ensure that the district’s development agenda leaves no one behind — especially those who once stood on the front lines to secure Rwanda’s peace.