Western Province, Rwanda – 22 August 2025 – The Council of Commissioners of the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC) has completed a four-day working visit to Western Province, where they engaged local leaders, security officials and beneficiaries in a series of events that underscored Rwanda’s enduring commitment to peace, dignity and reintegration.

The visit, held from 19 to 22 August, was led by Hon. Valérie Nyirahabineza, President of the RDRC, joined by Commissioners Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Jacques Nziza, Hon. Jean Muhongayire, Hon. Jean Marie Vianney Gatabazi and Hon. Drocella Nyirarugero.

Warm Welcome in Nyabihu

The Commissioners began their mission in Nyabihu District, where Mayor Antoinette Mukandayisenga and security officials received them with open arms. Discussions there zeroed in on stronger collaboration to enhance programmes designed to empower ex-combatants and uplift RDRC beneficiaries across the district.

The delegation also toured Bihinga IDP Model Village, a shining example of Rwanda’s inclusive development vision. Beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Paul Kagame for restoring dignity through decent housing and creating a model for successful reintegration.

Provincial Engagements

On the following day, Western Province Governor Jean Bosco Ntibitura, accompanied by the Provincial Security Council, welcomed the delegation. Talks revolved around sharpening cooperation between the Province and the RDRC, monitoring the welfare of ex-combatants, and finding practical solutions to challenges they still face.

Direct exchanges were held with representatives from Nyabihu, Ngororero, Rutsiro and Rubavu, where beneficiaries reaffirmed their commitment to embracing government programmes that enable them to play an active role in national development.

Dialogue with Beneficiaries

Together with the Reserve Force, the RDRC Council of Commissioners also held a joint meeting with ex-combatants from Ngororero, Nyabihu, Rubavu and Rutsiro. Participants agreed to redouble efforts to encourage members of the FDLR and splinter factions still in the jungles of eastern DRC to repatriate peacefully to Rwanda.

The Commissioners emphasised three key benefits of repatriation: strengthening national security, restoring opportunities lost to those trapped in the jungles, and putting an end to the spread of genocide ideology that lingers among armed groups.

“Those honourably discharged from the military serve as living role models,” one Commissioner noted, stressing that reintegrated ex-combatants embody the value of peace, dignity and resilience in Rwanda’s journey towards unity.

Nyamasheke, Rusizi and Karongi

The tour continued in Nyamasheke, where the Commissioners met District Executive Secretary Placide Muneza and security organs to deepen collaboration on reintegration. Later, they held discussions with beneficiaries from Nyamasheke, Rusizi and Karongi, urging them to seize the opportunities provided by national programmes and to be champions of peace in their communities.

Beneficiaries in turn voiced appreciation to President Kagame for his tireless efforts to consolidate peace and uplift their livelihoods.

Commitment to Reintegration

In Rusizi District, Mayor Phanuel Sindayiheba welcomed the delegation for talks focused on improving coordination and addressing practical challenges affecting ex-combatants’ welfare.

The Commissioners concluded their mission with a visit to Gatsiro Transit Centre, currently undergoing renovation to boost Rwanda’s capacity to host returnees from the DRC before they proceed to Mutobo Demobilisation Centre.