Rubavu Mayor Says FDLR Deceived Residents Into Selling Land

Kigali, April 17, 2026 - Authorities in Rubavu District say some residents were misled into selling their property by members of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), who allegedly convinced them that they would soon take control of Rwanda.

The remarks were made by Rubavu Mayor Mulindwa Prosper on April 16, 2026, during the reception of Rwandan nationals who had returned from the Democratic Republic of Congo after being held in areas controlled by the armed group.

Return of civilians from eastern DRC

A total of 403 returnees-including 280 children, 105 women, and 18 men-entered Rwanda through the La Corniche border crossing between Rubavu and Goma. They were subsequently transferred to a temporary reception facility in Nyarushishi, Rusizi District, where they are receiving initial assistance.

The group is part of civilians who had been living in eastern DRC and were recently assisted in returning through coordination involving humanitarian actors.

Allegations of exploitation and misinformation

Mayor Mulindwa warned returnees to remain cautious of misinformation and what he described as manipulation by armed groups operating in eastern Congo.

He stated that some individuals had been persuaded to sell land and assets under the belief that armed groups would soon take control of Rwanda, leaving them impoverished as a result.

“The people you have been with were deceiving some Rwandans into believing they would attack and take over the country, encouraging them to sell their land and fall into poverty through false promises and harmful narratives,” he said.

He urged returnees to rely on official institutions and to share accurate information with relatives who remain outside the country, encouraging voluntary return.

Testimonies from returnees

Some returnees described difficult living conditions in eastern DRC, citing insecurity and lack of access to basic livelihoods.

One returnee, 25-year-old Niyonsenga Segasore, said life in the DRC was marked by fear and instability, making daily survival difficult.

Another returnee, 18-year-old Uwase Jeannette, said insecurity had severely affected agricultural activities, making it impossible to sustain livelihoods.

Reintegration support

Authorities confirmed that returnees are receiving reintegration assistance upon arrival, including financial support and basic supplies to help them restart their lives.

Officials say the program is part of ongoing efforts to facilitate the voluntary return and reintegration of Rwandans from conflict-affected areas in eastern DRC.