MWE Correspondent
277 Rwandan nationals have returned home from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), marking another chapter in the ongoing regional effort to support voluntary repatriation and peace in the Great Lakes region.
The return, which took place through the Grande Barrière border post in Rubavu District, follows the implementation of a tripartite agreement signed in June 2025 between Rwanda, the DRC, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The accord, established during a trilateral summit, set a clear framework for the safe and voluntary return of Rwandan refugees who have been living in the DRC for decades.
The 277 returnees—men, women, and children—were welcomed by officials from Rwanda’s Ministry in charge of Emergency Management, who assured them of support as they begin rebuilding their lives. They were transferred to the Nyarushishi Transit Centre in Rusizi District, where they will receive food, temporary shelter, and orientation before being resettled into their respective home communities.
Among the returnees was 76-year-old Leonard Ngabonziza, who fled Rwanda years ago during a period of regional unrest. He expressed profound relief to be back home after decades in exile. “It feels like a dream to see my homeland again,” he said softly. “I never thought I would live to witness this day.”
Another returnee, 29-year-old mother of three Feza Ntawiha, echoed similar sentiments, describing life in Congo as increasingly difficult. “There were times we went without food or medicine,” she said. “Now, I just want to raise my children in peace and rebuild my life.”
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Local authorities have pledged to provide full reintegration assistance, including access to social services and livelihood programs. Rubavu District Mayor Prosper Mulindwa welcomed the group, emphasizing that “Rwanda is ready to receive all its citizens who wish to return voluntarily and start anew.”
Officials from UNHCR have also commended the coordinated effort, noting that more than 4,000 Rwandans have voluntarily returned home since the beginning of 2025. The agency reiterated its commitment to ensuring the process remains safe, dignified, and sustainable.
Analysts say the repatriation is a positive sign for regional peace and stability. It not only restores hope for displaced families but also demonstrates progress in implementing cross-border cooperation agreements aimed at resolving long-standing refugee issues in Central and East Africa.
However, humanitarian experts caution that reintegration will require continuous support—especially for families returning to areas still facing economic hardship. Continued collaboration between the government, UN agencies, and local communities is seen as crucial to ensure returnees are not left vulnerable once again.
