On this thursday theough Rubavu, Rwanda received 359 nationals returning from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with local leaders urging them to embrace unity, education, and national values as they begin a new chapter back home.

The returnees were officially welcomed at the La Corniche One Stop Border Post in Rubavu District by Rubavu Mayor Prosper Mulindwa before being transferred to the Nyarushishi Transit Centre in Rusizi District for temporary accommodation and reintegration support.

Addressing the group, Mayor Mulindwa thanked the returnees for choosing to come back to Rwanda and encouraged them to rebuild their lives in peace and dignity.

“You have made the right decision to return home and choose a better future in your country. Rwanda is your home, and you are welcome,” Mulindwa said.

He further urged them to love their country, ensure their children attend school, reject genocide ideology, and respect the laws of Rwanda.

The latest group adds to the growing number of Rwandans repatriated from eastern DRC in recent years through government and humanitarian efforts.

According to Rwanda’s Ministry in charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA), thousands of Rwandans have voluntarily returned from the DRC since 2021, many after years of displacement and insecurity linked to armed groups operating in eastern Congo.

In 2025 alone, Rwanda received more than 5,000 returnees from the DRC through various repatriation exercises.

Authorities say returnees are provided with temporary shelter, healthcare, documentation, and reintegration assistance before rejoining their communities across the country.

The Nyarushishi Transit Centre in Rusizi District continues to serve as one of the main reception facilities for returning Rwandans arriving from the DRC.