The Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC) has conducted a sensitization seminar for members of ex-armed groups, phase 71, encouraging them to pursue opportunities available in mainstream programs  aimed at improving their socio economic livelihood.

The sensitization seminar was held on June 18, 2024, at the Mutobo Demobilisation Center, facilitated discussions between ex-combatants and RDRC staff. Special attention was given to categories including the elderly, women, youth, and the disabled, to understand their reintegration into their families and to continue offering support.

Commissioner Fred Nyamurangwa, representing the RDRC Chairperson, launched the sensitization seminar, urging beneficiaries to attentively follow the courses provided to align with national programs designed to enhance welfare and development.

Mr. Martin Ntirenganya, Director Social Protection Unit in Musanze district, emphasized the importance of participating in national programs available in their sectors and cells, such as VUP, Education for All, and CBHI Scheme.

Mr. Jean Claude Rwahama, Director of the Social Protection Unit in LODA, advised beneficiaries under reintegration process to engage with the Gira Wigire program. "This program is designed to help you transform your lives from nothing to something," said Mr. Rwahama. "Gira Wigire is there to help you develop using the available opportunities that you gained from socio-economic support, to transform your lives to a great living status. This way, you can graduate from being dependent on support to becoming economically independent and stable."

Lt. Col. Vianney Higiro, Reserve Force Commander in the North Province, encouraged ex-armed group members to leverage services provided by the Reserve Force. "Maintain good behavior, fight ignorance and poverty, and take full advantage of the opportunities available," said Lt. Col. Higiro.

One of the beneficiaries, Col. Uwimana Alphonse, expressed his gratitude to the Rwandans who welcomed him back to Rwanda. "I am happy with the life I am living now," said Uwimana. He was received by his wife, Mukashyaka Matilde, who repatriated five years before him. The couple is thriving in their home in Huye district of Southern Province as their reintegration process continues.