Rwanda's Ambassador to the United Nations, Martin Ngoga, has emphasized the need for swift action to disarm and dismantle the Forces Démocratiques de Libération du Rwanda (FDLR) rebel group operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Speaking to the UN Security Council, Ngoga stated that the FDLR's continued presence poses a significant threat to regional security and stability. The group has been active in the DRC for over 30 years and has been linked to genocide ideology and attacks on Rwandan territory.
Ngoga pointed out that despite existing agreements, the disarmament and dismantling of the FDLR have not been fully implemented. He stressed that this process is crucial to restoring security in the region and addressing a key concern for Rwanda's national security. The FDLR, which was formed by Hutu extremists responsible for the 1994 genocide against Tutsis, has been accused of committing atrocities and promoting genocide ideology in the DRC.
The Rwandan Ambassador cited recent examples of collaboration between the FDLR and Congolese security forces, including the FARDC, Wazalendo, and other armed groups. In February 2026, FARDC aircraft and military equipment, including trucks carrying tons of ammunition, were reportedly delivered to FDLR and other groups in the Pinga and Kibua areas. Similar incidents have been reported in subsequent months, highlighting the ongoing challenge of disarming and dismantling the FDLR.
Ngoga expressed concern over the continued presence of the FDLR in the DRC, which he said is promoting genocide ideology and committing acts of violence. He emphasized that the group's activities near the Rwandan border, as well as its collaboration with Congolese security forces, pose a significant threat to regional stability. Rwanda has welcomed efforts to facilitate dialogue and coordination between the DRC and other regional actors, including the recent talks in Washington and Doha.
The Ambassador noted that Rwanda has taken steps to implement the Washington agreements, including the removal of security measures, and has notified the relevant bodies established by the agreements. However, significant gaps remain in the implementation of these agreements, particularly with regard to the disarmament and dismantling of the FDLR. Ngoga called on the international community to support efforts to address this issue and ensure the group's disarmament and dismantling.
The FDLR's continued presence in the DRC has been a longstanding concern for Rwanda, which has repeatedly called for the group's disarmament and dismantling. Ngoga's statement to the UN Security Council highlights the need for sustained international pressure and support to address this issue. The situation in the DRC remains complex, with multiple armed groups operating in the country and regional stability a concern.
The UN Security Council has been briefed on the situation, and Ngoga's statement is likely to add to the growing pressure on the international community to take action. The FDLR's disarmament and dismantling are critical to regional stability and security, and Rwanda's Ambassador to the UN has emphasized the need for swift and decisive action to address this issue.
Key points
- The FDLR's continued presence in the DRC poses a significant threat to regional security and stability.
- Rwanda has welcomed efforts to facilitate dialogue and coordination between the DRC and other regional actors.
- The disarmament and dismantling of the FDLR are critical to regional stability and security.
