Rwanda on Thursday received 403 of its nationals returning from Goma through the La Corniche One Stop Border Post, in the latest repatriation effort aimed at helping citizens displaced by insecurity in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The returnees were officially welcomed by Rubavu District Mayor Prosper Mulindwa, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting citizens returning home.

“We are here to receive our fellow Rwandans with dignity and ensure they are safe. The government remains committed to helping them rebuild their lives and reunite with their families,” Mulindwa said during the reception.

Following reception and initial processing, the group is being transferred to the Nyarushishi Temporary Transit Camp in Rusizi District, where they will receive emergency support, registration services, and assistance before returning to their home communities.

This latest group brings the number of Rwandans received from the DRC so far this year to at least 1,096.

That total includes earlier returnees welcomed in February, as well as several groups received in recent weeks as insecurity continues to affect eastern DRC.

The continued arrivals reflect both the worsening humanitarian situation in eastern DRC and ongoing efforts by Rwanda and its partners to facilitate safe, voluntary, and dignified returns.

Rwandan authorities say returnees will continue to receive temporary shelter, essential services, and reintegration support to help them start over safely.