Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva of Rwanda has expressed concerns that the FDLR armed group continues to receive support from the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo. He made these remarks during the third Russia-Africa Summit held in Moscow from October 28 to 29, 2026. The summit brought together African and Russian leaders to discuss cooperation in various fields, including politics, security, trade, investment, and technology. Nsengiyumva represented President Paul Kagame at the summit.
The FDLR armed group, formed by remnants of forces responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, is a serious threat to Rwanda's security. Nsengiyumva emphasized that resolving the FDLR issue, as provided for in the Washington Accords between Rwanda and DR Congo, is essential to restoring stability in the region. He stressed that the group's activities remain a major obstacle to lasting peace and security in the Great Lakes region.
Nsengiyumva also called for stronger efforts to combat hate speech, persecution, and discrimination targeting Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese communities in eastern DR Congo. He said protecting these communities from violence and dehumanizing rhetoric is crucial to ensuring the safety of civilians affected by the conflict. The Prime Minister emphasized that lasting peace cannot be achieved through military measures alone and that the political causes of the conflict must also be addressed.
Rwanda remains committed to implementing its obligations under the Washington Accords and participating in African Union-led initiatives aimed at resolving security challenges in the region. Nsengiyumva maintained that addressing both the security threats and the political causes of the conflict is necessary to establish lasting peace and stability in the Great Lakes region.
The Prime Minister's comments come as the region continues to experience instability due to the presence of armed groups. The FDLR's activities have been a major concern for Rwanda and the international community. Nsengiyumva's statement highlights the need for concerted efforts to address the issue and ensure regional peace and security.
The Russia-Africa Summit provided a platform for African leaders to discuss various issues affecting the continent, including security, trade, and investment. Nsengiyumva's participation in the summit and his statement on the FDLR issue demonstrate Rwanda's commitment to regional peace and security.
The international community has been following developments in the Great Lakes region closely, and Nsengiyumva's statement is likely to generate renewed attention to the issue. The Prime Minister's call for stronger efforts to combat hate speech and protect civilians affected by the conflict is also expected to resonate with human rights organizations and other stakeholders.
Key points
- DR Congo's continued support for the FDLR armed group poses a significant threat to regional peace and security.
- Resolving the FDLR issue, as provided for in the Washington Accords, is essential to restoring stability in the region.
- Lasting peace in the region can only be achieved by addressing both the security threats and the political causes of the conflict.
