A total of 337 Rwandans who had been living in the Democratic Republic of Congo returned home through the La Corniche One-Stop Border Post.
They were received by Pacifique Ishimwe, the Rubavu District vice mayor in charge of social affairs, who welcomed them back and commended their decision to return.
She encouraged them to feel at home and take advantage of the opportunities available in Rwanda.
“We are pleased to welcome you to Rubavu District. Although you come from different parts of the country, because you entered through this border, we receive you on behalf of all Rwandans,” she said.
“We consider you as people we had lost and are now happily receiving back home. We welcome you as Rwandans, as brothers and sisters, and we look forward to working together as we continue building our country.” She added.
The vice mayor reminded them that repatriation does not limit their freedom of movement, noting that they can still cross into the DRC for work or other activities as long as they return without claiming refugee status.
“This is not about restricting your movement. If you have work across the border, you may go and return as long as you do not present yourselves as repatriated individuals.
Some people misuse this process by pretending to be refugees. When you travel, do so as Rwandans with a purpose,” she said.
Ishimwe also informed them that they would be temporarily accommodated at the Kijote transit center, where they will receive support to reintegrate.
