A total of 403 Rwandan returnees arrived on Thursday, April 16, from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) through the La Corniche One Stop Border Post in Rubavu District, bringing the number of returnees received since the beginning of the year to over 1,687.

The group was welcomed by the Mayor of Rubavu District, Prosper Mulindwa, who assured them of government support and highlighted the opportunities available to facilitate their reintegration. He emphasized Rwanda’s continued progress, underscoring unity, social cohesion, and a shared commitment to sustainable development; values that contrast with the country’s past marked by division and discrimination.

Among the returnees was Magdalene Nyirabarigira, 79, who expressed relief after returning home following more than three decades in eastern DRC. She described years of hardship marked by insecurity and poverty.

“We have lived a terrible life with no peace because of armed groups and ongoing wars,” she said. “It was just survival. I decided to return after being assured that Rwanda is now safe.”

Another returnee, Jean-Bosco Nzabonimpa, also shared his experience, noting the challenges he faced while living in a conflict-affected environment.

“I have finally arrived home safely in Gisenyi,” he said. “For many years, I was held captive while providing treatment for malaria to different groups.”

Addressing the returnees, Mayor Mulindwa reassured them of equal treatment and support.

“You will be treated like any other Rwandan. No one should feel like a refugee when their own country is safe,” he stated.

He further noted that government programmes aimed at improving livelihoods will play a key role in supporting the returnees as they rebuild their lives.

The returnees will first be hosted at Nyarushishi Transit Centre in Rusizi District, where they will receive initial assistance before being reintegrated into their respective communities across the country.

Rwanda continues to uphold its commitment to receiving its nationals and ensuring their safe, dignified, and sustainable reintegration.