Addis Ababa – June 22, 2026: On behalf of the Republic of Rwanda, the Minister in Charge of Emergency Management, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Albert Murasira, signed the Joint Communiqué of the Tripartite High-Level Meeting between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the Government of Rwanda, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on the Voluntary Repatriation of Refugees.

The meeting brought together senior representatives of the three parties to review progress made in the voluntary repatriation process and reaffirm their commitment to advancing safe, dignified, informed, and voluntary returns as a durable solution for refugees. The parties adopted the 2026–2027 Tripartite Technical Working Group Roadmap, which outlines key actions, responsibilities, and timelines to support repatriation and reintegration efforts.

In his remarks, Minister Murasira emphasized Rwanda’s unwavering commitment to supporting the sustainable reintegration of returning nationals and strengthening regional cooperation on refugee issues.

"Rwanda remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the sustainable reintegration of returning nationals. Through enabling policies, comprehensive reintegration programmes, and a conducive socio-economic environment, we have put in place the necessary conditions to welcome and support returnees. All Rwandan refugees residing in the DRC are welcome to return home and contribute to our nation's continued development and prosperity," said Minister Murasira.

The Joint Communiqué noted the continued facilitation of voluntary repatriation from the DRC to Rwanda, with 8,575 Rwandan refugees having returned safely since January 2025, including 2,347 in 2026. The parties also agreed to strengthen coordination through regular cross-border engagements and implementation of the newly adopted roadmap.

On the sidelines of the meeting, Minister Murasira held discussions with Mr. Barham Salih, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, focusing on refugee protection and assistance, socio-economic inclusion, self-reliance initiatives, and support for Rwanda’s Refugee Graduation Strategy, which seeks to transition refugees from humanitarian assistance towards sustainable livelihoods.

The High Commissioner commended Rwanda’s progressive refugee policies and leadership in refugee management, while underscoring the importance of sustained international solidarity and advocacy to address the growing needs of refugees and host communities.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by Rwanda, the DRC, and UNHCR to continue working together towards durable and sustainable solutions for refugees, while contributing to peace, stability, and development in the Great Lakes Region.