Former Women Combatants Urged to Safeguard National Unity

KIGALI, February 14, 2026 - Former female fighters from different armed groups in Rwanda have been called upon to strengthen reconciliation and preserve national unity during the General Assembly of the Ndabaga Community, held on Saturday.

The community brings together women who participated in the country’s liberation struggle - including members of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi), former soldiers of the RPF, and ex-combatants from the defeated Forces armées rwandaises (EX-FAR). Participants were encouraged to share experiences and develop initiatives that promote cohesion and social progress.

The name Ndabaga refers to a historical symbol meaning “a girl who became a warrior and went to battle,” reflecting the members’ military service while recognizing their identity as women.

Promoting Skills and Self-Reliance

The head of the community, retired Lieutenant Mbabazi Diane, urged members to prioritize mutual learning and development projects aimed at improving their living conditions.

“Our objective as Ndabaga members is to strengthen our skills so we can improve our daily lives,” she said.

To support economic empowerment, the community is partnering with Airtel Rwanda Communications on a 30-million-Rwandan-franc tailoring project. The initiative will begin with a pilot group before expanding nationwide if successful.

According to organizers, tailoring was chosen because many members had limited access to formal education, and the project offers a practical pathway toward financial independence.

Unity and Reconciliation Emphasized

Leaders reminded participants that, despite ongoing development efforts, they must remain ambassadors of reconciliation and unity and guide others away from division.

“As people who contributed to the country’s liberation, we must lead by example and demonstrate the value of Rwandan unity,” Mbabazi added.

Personal Transformation

Member Umurungi Musiime Florence, who joined the Ndabaga Community in 2004, said participation helped her regain confidence and rebuild her life.

She explained that being surrounded by peers encouraged her to return to school, continue contributing to society, and pursue personal development.

The Ndabaga Community says its activities aim not only at economic empowerment but also at reinforcing long-term social cohesion and post-conflict healing in Rwanda.