Over 200 ex-FDLR combatants repatriated and reintegrated in Rwanda

Northern Province, Rwanda, March 31, 2026 - The Rwandan Demobilization and Rehabilitation Commission (RDRC) has announced the reintegration of 214 former fighters from armed groups operating in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, including the FDLR. The group represents the 76th batch processed through Rwanda’s demobilization program, with officials also confirming that about 400 more ex-combatants are expected in the next intake. According to the commission, since the program began, a total of 12,686 former combatants have passed through the Mutobo Reintegration Centre. RDRC head Valerie Nyirahabineza said many of the returnees come from border districts such as Rubavu, highlighting ongoing cross-border movement between Rwanda and eastern DRC. Officials used the occasion to call for stronger community vigilance against recruitment by armed groups and to encourage continued repatriation efforts. Returnees also shared testimonies about conditions inside armed groups and described previous recruitment and propaganda practices used in the forests of eastern DRC. Authorities urged the reintegrated ex-combatants to promote unity, reject divisive ideology, and support efforts to encourage remaining fighters to return home peacefully. Government spokespersons emphasized that reintegration remains a key part of Rwanda’s broader stability and reconciliation strategy.

Faits rapportés

Northern Province, Rwanda, March 31, 2026 - The Rwandan Demobilization and Rehabilitation Commission (RDRC) has announced the reintegration of 214 former fighters from armed groups operating in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, including the FDLR. The group represents the 76th batch processed through Rwanda’s demobilization program, with officials also confirming that about 400 more ex-combatants are expected in the next intake. According to the commission, since the program began, a total of 12,686 former combatants have passed through the Mutobo Reintegration Centre. RDRC head Valerie Nyirahabineza said many of the returnees come from border districts such as Rubavu, highlighting ongoing cross-border movement between Rwanda and eastern DRC. Officials used the occasion to call for stronger community vigilance against recruitment by armed groups and to encourage continued repatriation efforts. Returnees also shared testimonies about conditions inside armed groups and described previous recruitment and propaganda practices used in the forests of eastern DRC. Authorities urged the reintegrated ex-combatants to promote unity, reject divisive ideology, and support efforts to encourage remaining fighters to return home peacefully. Government spokespersons emphasized that reintegration remains a key part of Rwanda’s broader stability and reconciliation strategy.