477 Rwandans Escape DRC Conflict as Insecurity Forces Mass Return Home
Escalating insecurity, persistent armed clashes and threats to civilian lives in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have driven 477 Rwandans back home, as worsening conditions and fear of armed groups leave many with little hope of rebuilding stable lives in the neighbouring country.
The returnees arrived in Rwanda on Thursday, November 12, 2026, through the Rusizi I and Grande Barrière border crossings in Rusizi and Rubavu districts, respectively, after experiencing insecurity, looting, intimidation and difficulties accessing essential services.
Some of those who returned described a prolonged period of fear and uncertainty, saying armed groups, including the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), had repeatedly threatened people and made it difficult for them to leave the DRC.
Nyiransengiyumva Victoria, one of the returnees, said the situation had become increasingly unbearable, with people facing constant harassment, robbery and threats of death whenever they attempted to return to Rwanda.
She expressed relief at finally reaching home, noting that the peaceful environment and reception she received were contrary to the negative accounts she had previously heard about Rwanda while living in the DRC.
Nyiransengiyumva also expressed hope that her father and other Rwandans still living in the neighbouring country would return, allowing families to reunite and rebuild their lives in safety.
For Niyitegeka Alfred, the decision to return followed repeated encounters with armed conflict and limited access to healthcare, challenges that had significantly affected his life in the DRC.
He said persistent fighting had frustrated his previous attempts to cross into Rwanda, leaving him unable to return despite the difficult circumstances he was experiencing.
Now back home, Niyitegeka said he was ready to contribute to Rwanda’s development and encouraged other Rwandans still in the DRC to seize the opportunity to return.
He also expressed hope that his wife and children, who remained in the DRC, would eventually join him in Rwanda.
Meanwhile, Rusizi District Executive Secretary Rwiririza Fred, who received some of the returnees at the Rusizi I border post, urged them to take advantage of available opportunities, particularly in education, to help their families establish a better future.
He encouraged those who had returned to ensure their children enrol in school, emphasising that access to education is available to all children in Rwanda.
Rwiririza further called on Rwandans still living in the DRC to return home, identifying misinformation and rumours as major factors contributing to fears and reluctance among some potential returnees.
He also raised concern over men who remain in forests alongside different armed groups, urging those still in such circumstances to abandon the insecurity and return to their country.
Of the 477 Rwandans who returned, 341 crossed through the Grande Barrière border post in Rubavu District, while 136 entered through the Rusizi I border crossing in Rusizi District.
Following their arrival, all 477 returnees were transported to the Kijote Transit Centre in Nyabihu District, where they will receive reception services and assistance as they prepare for reintegration and a fresh start in Rwanda.
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