Ugandan General Says DRC No Longer a Haven for Rwandan Armed Groups

Musanze, Rwanda, February 20, 2026 - Gen. Maj. Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the 2nd Division of the Ugandan Army, stated that the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is no longer a safe haven for armed groups targeting Rwanda’s security, despite both countries being members of the East African Community (EAC). Gen. Maj. Muhanguzi led a Ugandan military delegation to Rwanda, starting at the Rwandan Demobilization and Rehabilitation Commission (RDRC) headquarters in Mutobo, Musanze District, on February 19, 2026. The mission focused on understanding programs that support the reintegration of former armed group members, including FDLR fighters, and their families from the DRC. Commitment to Regional Security He emphasized that the DRC’s inclusion in the EAC should mean the elimination of armed threats: “Congo also requested to join East Africa. After joining, we should not have criminals in Congo. Rwanda would not have an enemy from Uganda, and Uganda would not have an enemy from Rwanda. However, we also want Congo not to have enemies who attack Uganda, who attack Rwanda,” Gen. Maj. Muhanguzi said. Reintegration of Former Fighters The General praised FDLR fighters who have returned to Rwanda, acknowledging their potential to contribute positively to the country: “A country is not built by one person, it is built by all the people. I also congratulate President Kagame for being able to lead Rwanda, and you too, when the time comes, will know the truth and return home,” he added. Since 2001, the RDRC has repatriated 12,602 former armed group members, though reports indicate that some, particularly from the FDLR, remain in DRC forests. The visit highlights ongoing regional cooperation between Rwanda and Uganda to enhance security, reintegration programs, and peace-building efforts in the Great Lakes region.