On Friday, August 29, 2025, UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi visited Nkamira Transit Centre in Rubavu District, where he met Congolese asylum seekers, heard their stories and praised Rwanda’s efforts to provide protection and support. He emphasized that sustainable peace and security in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are essential for their safe and dignified return.

Grandi was welcomed by Permanent Secretary Mr. Aristarque Ngoga and the Mayor of Rubavu District, Mr. Prosper Murindwa. He was accompanied by UNHCR Regional Director Mamadou Balde and UNHCR Rwanda Representative, Ms. Ndeye Aissatou Masseck Ndiaye.

In his remarks, the High Commissioner highlighted that his visit aligns with the ongoing peace processes between Rwanda, the DRC and regional actors. He commended Rwanda’s inclusive refugee programs, expressed solidarity with asylum seekers and acknowledged the tireless efforts of humanitarian partners despite global funding challenges.

“Rwanda has shown remarkable commitment to protecting those forced to flee, and we must work together to create the conditions that will allow them to return home safely,” Grandi said.

While meeting with representatives of Congolese asylum seekers, Grandi heard first-hand accounts of violence and displacement. “We want to return home, where we were born,” said Gashati Nyanjwenge, 41, who was disabled by the FDLR while protecting his cows in Masisi territory. “We recommend increased efforts in addressing the ongoing wars in Congo so that we can return home,” added Anatalie Mukankusi, 75, who has been at the camp for three years fleeing violence in Masisi.

Speaking to journalists after touring the camp, Grandi explained that his visit to Rwanda, which followed a stop in DR Congo, was in response to the Rwanda-DR peace agreement signed on June 27, 2025, in Washington, and the Doha Declaration of Principles. He pledged to advocate for peace and security in eastern DRC as the foundation for safe returns, reaffirming UNHCR’s commitment to durable solutions.

Partners present at the camp raised concerns about the impact of global funding shortages on humanitarian operations, highlighting prioritisation, coordination and community engagement as key strategies to sustain support. The High Commissioner later toured the camp, praising the conducive environment created through collaboration between the Government of Rwanda, UNHCR, and partners.