MUSANZE, Rwanda, 28 July 2026 – Speaking on behalf of the twenty-four (24) children who successfully completed the Rehabilitation and Civic Education Programme at the Child Rehabilitation Centre (CRC) of the Mutobo Demobilisation Centre, Jonathan Rukundo expressed profound gratitude to the Government of Rwanda for restoring hope and giving them a second chance at life.

Addressing government officials, development partners, and members of the children's families during the reunification ceremony, Jonathan reflected on the painful experiences the children endured while living with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) in the jungles of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

He described a childhood overshadowed by violence, where children were raised in an environment that normalised conflict instead of education and family life.

"Today is a historic day that reminds us of where we have come from and where we are going. While we were in the jungles, our lives revolved around war. We were taught to steal and to kill, and we were treated as instruments of conflict."

Jonathan explained that beyond the harsh living conditions, the children were subjected to systematic misinformation and indoctrination designed to instil fear of returning to Rwanda.

"We were taught to hate Rwanda and were told that if we ever returned, we would be killed. However, when we arrived home, we received a warm welcome and realised that everything we had been told was false."

He said the children's fears quickly disappeared after arriving in Rwanda, where they experienced compassion, protection, and care that contradicted everything they had been led to believe.

Jonathan praised the Government of Rwanda and RDRC for creating a nurturing environment at the Mutobo Child Rehabilitation Centre, where the children received psychosocial support, education, healthcare, and the opportunity to rebuild their confidence and dignity.

"You welcomed us with parental care. You provided us with clothing, hygiene materials, and every form of support we needed. We regained our health, played, laughed, and were reunited with our families. We experienced everything that every child deserves to have."

He noted that the rehabilitation programme transformed not only their physical wellbeing but also their outlook on life, allowing them to rediscover hope and prepare for a brighter future.

Looking ahead, Jonathan affirmed the children's determination to become responsible citizens and ambassadors of peace while encouraging other children and individuals still living with armed groups in eastern DRC to return home.

"Today we return to our families filled with hope and new aspirations. We are committed to being responsible children, respecting our parents, and upholding the values and programmes of our country as we have been taught. We will also encourage our fellow children who remain in the forests to learn the truth about Rwanda and return home to rebuild their lives."

Concluding his remarks, Jonathan conveyed heartfelt appreciation to the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission, the management and staff of the Mutobo Demobilisation Centre, and everyone who contributed to the children's rehabilitation journey.

He said the children lacked nothing during their stay at the centre and pledged that they would honour the opportunity they had been given by becoming responsible citizens who contribute positively to their families, communities, and the development of Rwanda.

End.