The Rwandan government has stated that despite the return of 3,752 Rwandan refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) this year, those in areas controlled by the DRC government are still being held captive by the FDLR rebel group. According to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Olivier Jean Patrick Nduhungirehe, the FDLR is preventing these refugees from returning to Rwanda.
The refugees who have been repatriated were assisted by the UNHCR and MONUSCO, and came from areas controlled by the AFC/M23 in North and South Kivu provinces. However, those in areas controlled by the DRC government are still being held by the FDLR, which is causing them to live in poor conditions. The Rwandan government has expressed concern that some media outlets are giving credence to the FDLR's claims.
A recent report by RFI stated that refugees being repatriated are being accompanied by former FDLR rebels and their families, but the Rwandan government has denied this. According to the government, 120 refugees were repatriated on September 8, including 51 former FDLR rebels and 69 family members, who are receiving reintegration support in Rwanda.
The Rwandan government has emphasized that it is committed to providing support to refugees who have been repatriated, and is working to ensure their safe and dignified return. However, the FDLR continues to pose a threat to the refugees and is preventing them from returning to Rwanda. The government has called on the DRC to take action to address the FDLR's activities.
Testimonies from refugees who have been repatriated and have undergone reintegration programs in Rwanda have highlighted the suffering they endured while in the DRC. Many reported being misled by the FDLR and living in fear for their lives. They also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to rebuild their lives in Rwanda.
The Rwandan government has reiterated its commitment to implementing the Washington agreement, which aims to bring peace and stability to the region. The agreement, signed on December 4, 2025, includes a commitment by Rwanda to withdraw its defensive measures along the border with the DRC, once the FDLR is no longer a threat.
The situation in the DRC remains complex, with ongoing security concerns and challenges in implementing the Washington agreement. However, the Rwandan government has expressed its willingness to work with international partners to address these challenges and promote peace and stability in the region.
Key points
- The FDLR rebel group continues to hold captive Rwandan refugees in areas controlled by the DRC government.
- The Rwandan government has repatriated 3,752 refugees from the DRC this year, with support from the UNHCR and MONUSCO.
- The Washington agreement aims to bring peace and stability to the region, including the disarmament of the FDLR rebel group.
