Rwanda receives 222 nationals rescued from FDLR captivity in eastern DRC

Rusizi District, Rwanda, March 26, 2026 - Rwanda has received 222 citizens who were previously held in areas of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo under the control of the FDLR armed group. The returnees, including 149 children, 58 women, and 15 men, crossed into Rwanda through the La Corniche border post, which connects Rwanda and the DRC. Upon arrival, they were transported to the Nyarushishi transit camp in Rusizi District, where they will undergo temporary reception and support procedures before reintegration into their communities. Officials said the group had been living in a temporary camp in Goma after leaving various locations in eastern DRC where they had reportedly been under the influence or control of the FDLR. Local authorities welcomed the returnees, urging them to actively participate in rebuilding their lives and contributing to national development. The Deputy Mayor of Rubavu District in charge of economic development Nzabonimpa Déogratias encouraged them to reunite with their families, resume education for children, and access available social and health services. He emphasized that reintegration support includes financial assistance and basic supplies intended to help returnees restart their lives, with adults receiving 188 USD, minors receiving 113 USD, and each individual provided with food assistance valued at 45,000 Rwandan francs. Authorities stated that the return process is part of ongoing efforts to assist nationals coming back from conflict-affected areas and to facilitate their reintegration into normal civilian life.