Rwanda Receives 161 Returnees from DRC

RUBAVU Rwanda, February 10, 2026 - Rwanda on Tuesday welcomed 161 citizens repatriated from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where they had been living in displacement after reportedly being held by the FDLR. The returnees - 110 children, 38 women, and 13 men - crossed into Rwanda through the La Corniche main border post, linking Rubavu with Goma. Upon arrival, they were received by local officials, including Prosper Mulindwa, Mayor of Rubavu District. They were immediately transported to a temporary transit center in Kijote, located in Nyabihu District, where they are undergoing short-term orientation and reintegration support. The repatriation followed resolutions adopted during a tripartite meeting between Rwanda, the DRC and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on July 24, 2025. Prior to their return, the group had been residing in a temporary camp in Goma, after fleeing various parts of eastern Congo. Addressing the returnees, Mayor Mulindwa questioned why any Rwandan should still consider themselves refugees, stating that Rwanda has abolished refugee status for its nationals and guarantees protection to its citizens. “A person who remains outside the country believing they are a refugee is pursuing a losing cause,” he said, urging them to contact others still in eastern Congo and encourage them to return home. Among the returnees was Nyiransabimana Ancille, 64, who said she fled Rwanda in 1994 and has now returned to the former Mutura Commune, expressing readiness to contribute to local development. Authorities stated that once the returnees receive their national identity documents, they will receive government reintegration assistance. Adults over 18 are to be granted $188, minors under 18 will receive $113, and each individual will also be provided with essential food supplies valued at 45,000 Rwandan Francs to support their transition back into normal life. The repatriation marks another step in ongoing regional efforts to facilitate voluntary returns and reduce the presence of Rwandan nationals in armed groups operating in eastern Congo.