Rubavu Honors Heroes, Praises Resistance Against FDLR

Rubavu, February 1, 2026 - The courage and resilience of the people of Rubavu District were celebrated during the Heroes of Rwanda ceremony, honoring their decades-long resistance against the FDLR armed group. Speaking at the event, Rubavu Mayor Mulindwa Prosper said the values of courage that define Rwandans prevented the district from being defeated, despite its proximity to hostile forces.“These values made Rwanda endure and resist those who carried out repeated attacks,” he said. He recalled that hostile forces crossed from neighboring countries between 1994 and early 2025, settling in the area but ultimately being defeated. He praised local heroes and criticized those who joined the FDLR instead of contributing to national development. Western Province Governor Ntibitura Jean Bosco echoed this message, expressing regret that some residents were deceived into joining the group, which he described as cowardly. He warned that any attempt to undermine Rwanda’s security would fail, urging citizens to encourage those still in armed groups to return home, stressing that the country is now safe and liberated. Governor Ntibitura also highlighted that Heroes’ Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for Rwanda’s survival and development, while emphasizing the country’s current focus on fighting poverty. In support of reintegration efforts, the Rwanda Demobilization and Reintegration Commission (RDRC) announced in October 2025 that it has rehabilitated 12,602 former combatants from armed groups operating in eastern DRC since 2001.