In a significant step towards peace-building and reintegration efforts, the Rwanda Demobilization and Reintegration Commission (RDRC) conducted the Official Discharge Ceremony for Ex-Armed Group Members (Ex-AGs), Phase 71, at the Mutobo Demobilization Centre on 29 April 2024.

The discharge of the 55 beneficiaries was composed of 46 adult ex AGs and 2 child ex AGs together with 7 civilians associated with armed groups plus their dependents, equal to 44 mostly women and children who completed the pre-discharge orientation programme (PDOP).

Nsengimana Claudien, Mayor of Musanze District, extended a formal welcome to all officials and guests, emphasizing the local government's readiness to integrate the ex-combatants. "We are dedicated to facilitating their seamless integration into society," the Mayor affirmed.

Col. Alphonse UWIMANA, a programme graduate, expressed gratitude to Rwanda for its compassionate reception and forgiveness. "At Mutobo DC, we underwent diverse sessions focusing on Rwandan History, Ndi Umunyarwanda, entrepreneurship and others," he noted.

Madam Valerie Nyirahabineza, the Chairperson of the Rwanda Demobilization and Reintegration Commission, commended the programme graduates, encouraging them to inspire their compatriots still stuck in the jungles of the DRC. "Your return is a testament of a valuable choice you made," she remarked, calling upon others to follow suit.

Minister of Local Government Honorable Musabyimana Jean Claude, while addressing the ex-armed group members, marked the completion of Phase 71. He stated, "No Rwandan child deserves to remain stranded in the jungles of the DRC. We extend our gratitude to those who have returned home for the commendable decision to reunite with your country. Your choice to lay down arms is the best ever made, for which we commend you. The country looks up to you, wherever you may be, to contribute to your personal and its reconstruction efforts."

After the ceremony, the ex-combatants officially discharged were taken to their families in their respective districts on April 30, 2024.

The mission is to facilitate the reinsertion and reintegration of former military members, empowering them to develop themselves and contribute to the comprehensive development of the country.

Rwanda continues to welcome those who voluntarily repatriate from various armed groups based in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to fulfill the aforementioned mission.

^{Col. UWIMANA Alphonse}

About the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC).

END