Authorities in Rusizi District on Monday, February 16, 2026, received 18 Rwandans who voluntarily returned home after spending several years in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The returnees, comprising four families, entered Rwanda through the Rusizi I border post, where local officials welcomed them and initiated reintegration procedures.
Speaking shortly after their arrival, the returnees dismissed long-standing claims that those who return to Rwanda face persecution.
“We had been told that people who went back were arrested or mistreated. But when I arrived here, I found no such problems,” one of them said.
Another returnee explained that she first travelled alone to assess the situation before returning to DR Congo to bring her children.
“I came to verify the information about Rwanda. After seeing that there was security and that people were living freely, I went back for my children. Unfortunately, my husband did not make it, but I managed to bring the children,” she said.
The families described their return as a moment of relief and renewed hope.
“It is pure joy—no fear, no harassment. I feel free. I urge others still there to take the right decision and come home,” another added.
Rusizi District Mayor Sindayiheba Phanuel said the returnees will temporarily stay at Nyarushishi Transit Camp for three to four weeks to undergo medical screening and receive humanitarian support.
“Some of the children show signs of malnutrition. They will be vaccinated and provided with adequate nutrition and healthcare before reintegration,” he said.
He added that each family will receive three months of food assistance before being reunited with relatives. Two of the families will resettle in Rubavu District, one in Nyamasheke, and one in Karongi, as part of coordinated reintegration efforts.
