Musanze, 28 November 2025

Defence Attachés (DAs) accredited to Rwanda today visited the Mutobo Demobilisation and Reintegration Centre in Musanze District to gain first-hand insight into how former members of the FDLR are received, rehabilitated, and reintegrated into the community upon their return to Rwanda.

The delegation was welcomed by the Chairperson of the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC), Ms. Valérie Nyirahabineza, together with other senior officials from the Commission. The Chairperson briefed the DAs on the Centre’s mission, highlighting its role in rehabilitating and reintegrating former members of Armed Groups including the FDLR into civilian life. She explained that the process, which takes up to about three months includes civic education, vocational training, and socioeconomic support aimed at helping ex-combatants become responsible citizens.

The DAs also heard testimonies from ex-combatants who described the realities of FDLR operations in the forests of the DRC and shared how they were welcomed back to Rwanda and received different civic education and vocational trainings that help them to reintegrate to the community and contribute to the development of the country.

Following the visit, Ms. Nyirahabineza stated: “We expect this delegation to go and tell the world that the FDLR is still operating in the jungles of the DRC, and that Rwanda has taken serious measures including a well-designed, progressive, and robust cross-border sensitisation campaign to call upon those still in the bush to lay down their arms and join us in rebuilding the country.”

The DAs then proceeded to the Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College, where they were welcomed by the Commandant, Brig Gen Andrew Nyamvumba, and faculty staff. The Commandant briefed them on the College’s mission to develop officers with the highest intellectual and professional standards in command and control, equipping them to respond effectively to the demands of today’s complex security environment.

He emphasised that the College trains both Rwandan and international officers from across Africa and beyond. “One of the strengths of this institution, that relates to your visit today, is the diversity of our student body. We are privileged to host allied officers who bring with them a wealth of experience, culture, and perspective. Their presence enriches the learning environment, strengthens interoperability, and builds the personal bonds that underpin future military diplomatic cooperation.” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the DAs, Col Cyril Chevauchet, Defence Attaché of France to Rwanda, expressed his appreciation to the RDF for the opportunity to visit both the Mutobo Demobilisation and Reintegration Centre and the RDF Command and Staff College, and he commended the warm hospitality extended to the delegation.