A total of 406 Rwandans who had been living in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have returned to Rwanda, with some saying misinformation about security conditions in the country had discouraged them from coming back.
The returnees, comprising 33 men, 97 women and 276 children from 125 families, entered Rwanda through the La Corniche border crossing in Rubavu District. They were subsequently taken to the Nyarushishi Transit Centre in Rusizi District, where they received basic assistance before beginning the process of reintegration into their communities.
Among those who returned is 43-year-old Twubahane Phenias, who was born in the former Gaseke Commune in Gisenyi Prefecture and had spent many years living in Masisi, eastern DRC.
Twubahane told IGIHE that he delayed his return after hearing claims that Rwanda was unsafe and that people who returned would be killed.
“Batubwiraga ko mu Rwanda nta mutekano uhari, ko umuntu uhageze ahita yicwa. Ibyo byatumye ntaha nyuma y’imyaka myinshi,” he said.
He said he left behind his pregnant wife and two children in DRC, adding that he hopes to reunite with them after obtaining the necessary documentation.
Twubahane also said that FDLR had allegedly warned people against returning, telling them they would be brought back if they left.
Rubavu District Mayor Mulindwa Prosper said Rwanda remains concerned about Rwandans who are unable to return because of armed groups operating in eastern DRC.
He urged the new arrivals to settle into their communities and encourage other Rwandans still in DRC to return.
“Mwinjiye mu gihugu cyiza cy’isezerano ryanyu. Mugire uruhare mu gucyura bagenzi banyu basigaye mu mashyamba ya Congo, bazane abana bige,” he told the returnees.
Mulindwa assured the returnees that they would not be abandoned and would receive support to rebuild their lives after years away from the country.
Following their stay at the transit centre, the returnees receive basic assistance intended to support their reintegration.
Adults aged 18 and above receive an initial allowance of $188, while those under 18 receive $113. Each returnee also receives basic food supplies valued at Rwf45,000.
The latest arrivals add to the number of Rwandans returning from eastern DRC amid continued efforts to facilitate the voluntary return and reintegration of displaced Rwandan families.
