Rubavu – On 18 November 2025, Rubavu District, in collaboration with the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC), convened a high-level mobilisation initiative aimed at encouraging Rwandan nationals still residing in the forests of the Democratic Republic of Congo—particularly those associated with armed groups such as the FDLR—to return voluntarily.

The campaign assembled a broad coalition of stakeholders, including former combatants who have successfully repatriated, community opinion leaders, cross-border traders, Lake Kivu transport operators, religious leaders, sector-level authorities, and members of the Rubavu District Security Council. Despite their diverse backgrounds, the participants shared a common objective: to advocate for the safe and dignified return of Rwandans still situated in the DRC forests.

Patterns of Return: A Gendered Concern

Rubavu District Mayor, Mulindwa Prosper, emphasised a concerning trend among those who choose to return voluntarily:

“Among the individuals who repatriate from the DRC, the overwhelming majority are women and children. This demonstrates that men—particularly younger men—remain hesitant to return, despite lacking any substantive reason to remain in the DRC.”

He stressed the need for coordinated action to address this persistent challenge:

“We must collectively develop sustainable strategies to facilitate their return. The longer they remain in the forests, the more precarious their circumstances become. Rwanda guarantees their rights, provides all necessary legal documentation, and fully supports all who return and seek to contribute to national development.”

Security as a Shared Responsibility

The District Defence Commander, Lt. Col. Donat Murenzi, highlighted the risks associated with illegal border crossings and the persistence of smuggling activities.

“Smuggling continues to be a concern and must be actively discouraged,” he stated. “All movements should occur through officially designated border points. Security is a collective responsibility shared by all citizens. When security is assured, both individuals and their property remain protected.”

He further urged communities to actively support national efforts:

“We each have a role in identifying and encouraging those still involved with the FDLR to return. Sharing timely information is essential, and security must be regarded as a common good.”

Unity as the Foundation of National Development

Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Jacques Nziza, Vice Chairperson of the RDRC, underscored Rubavu’s central role in the country’s repatriation and reintegration processes.

“More than 70 per cent of former FDLR members who repatriate originate from this district,” he observed. “Those who remain in the forests are now ageing, many facing diminished physical capacity. It is therefore imperative that we encourage their children—still trapped in those forests—to return before they face irreversible harm.”

He reiterated the centrality of unity to Rwanda’s broader development agenda:

“National unity remains the cornerstone of our progress. It is the lens through which we understand ourselves as Rwandans. Our presence here together symbolises our continued commitment to this unity.”

He also encouraged communities to maintain a forward-looking perspective:
“Poverty is not an inherent condition; it is often shaped by mindset. Thoughtful planning and collaborative effort lead to meaningful progress. Our shared culture and collective labour should strengthen our resolve to preserve national unity.”

Addressing the responsibility of various institutions, he stated: “Many Rwandans were displaced as a result of the FDLR’s misleading propaganda. There is no responsibility more pressing than encouraging these individuals to return. Leaders, faith organisations, and community structures must take a proactive role in this effort.”

His concluding message was unequivocal:

“We are committed to working with you to facilitate the return of all remaining individuals. Some fear returning due to shame or the length of time spent in the forests, but we shall ensure that none are left behind.”

Participants affirmed their readiness to intensify mobilisation efforts within their respective communities. For many, Rwanda’s visible developmental progress stands as clear evidence that there is no justification for any Rwandan to continue living in hiding.