In the wake of M23’s successful takeover of the city of Goma, Congolese refugees housed at the Rugerero Refugee Camp in Rubavu District have started making their way back to their homeland. The refugees report that peace and security are gradually returning to Goma, with life slowly getting back to normal.
On Thursday, 343 refugees from Congo left the temporary camp and headed for the Rwanda-DRC border, with Rwandan security forces providing transportation for 275 individuals to the “La Corniche” border post, where they were welcomed by M23 fighters. These fighters now control Goma after defeating the DRC Armed Forces (FARDC) and their allies, including FDLR and Wazalendo.
The returnees said their decision to go back home was based on information from relatives and friends in Goma, who assured them that the city has regained stability. They also mentioned that people are now able to resume their daily lives without the constant threat of violence.
Despite the encouraging news, not all refugees have opted to return. 68 individuals chose to remain in Rubavu, requesting to stay with friends and family. Additionally, 200 refugees still remain in the Rugerero Refugee Camp, uncertain about whether the peace in Goma is sustainable and questioning the long-term security in the city.
The recent returnees add to the more than 600 refugees who had already returned home on January 29, 2025. Many Congolese who had sought refuge in Rwanda are now optimistic about the restoration of peace in Goma, while others remain cautious. The unfolding situation remains fluid, and the future of the refugees continues to depend on the stability of the region.