The group arrived on Wednesday night through a joint effort between the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Government of Rwanda. Of the 164 evacuees, 143 originate from Sudan, 19 from Eritrea, while one person each comes from Ethiopia and South Sudan.
The ETM, a joint initiative involving UNHCR and the African Union, was established to provide lifesaving protection and assistance to vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers trapped in Libya. The mechanism temporarily relocates them to Rwanda while durable solutions, including resettlement to third countries, are pursued.
Since the launch of the ETM in 2019, a total of 2,760 people have been evacuated to Rwanda and hosted at Gashora Transit Centre. Of these, more than 2,500 have since been resettled in third countries.
In August 2024, the Government of Rwanda, UNHCR, and the African Union Commission agreed to extend the ETM programme. In a joint statement issued on August 22, 2024, the three parties reaffirmed their commitment to continue protecting evacuees and securing lasting solutions, while Rwanda provides temporary safe haven.
“The Government of Rwanda reaffirms its unwavering commitment to receive and protect these individuals, as well as others identified as particularly vulnerable and at risk,” the statement noted.
The parties also adopted a second addendum to the original Memorandum of Understanding signed on September 10, 2019. The updated framework emphasises a more transparent selection process for evacuees, ensuring equal opportunity for all potential candidates, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, race, gender, age, or any other factor unrelated to vulnerability.
The group arrived on Wednesday night through a joint effort between the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Government of Rwanda.The ETM, a joint initiative involving UNHCR and the African Union, was established to provide lifesaving protection and assistance to vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers trapped in Libya. Since the launch of the ETM in 2019, a total of 2,760 people have been evacuated to Rwanda and hosted at Gashora Transit Centre.
Supported by the UN Joint SDG Fund, this multi-agency initiative launched on Thursday, February 25, 2026, aims to fast-track the transition toward sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient agri-food systems across six food-insecure districts including; Rubavu, Rutsiro, Ngororero, Nyamagabe, Nyaruguru, and Burera.
The programme focuses on strengthening strategic partnerships, improving access to finance, and promoting affordable green technologies in horticulture, poultry, and livestock value chains. It further provides targeted support to agri‑MSMEs and cooperatives through financial literacy training, investment-ready business planning, and strengthened lending capacity among financial institutions.
Dr. Patrick Karangwa, Director General of Agriculture Modernisation at the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, emphasized the programme’s transformative potential: “The Rwanda Green Food Future programme represents a strategic step in strengthening our food systems through innovation, partnerships, and investment. By empowering farmers, cooperatives, and agribusinesses with climate-smart solutions and access to finance, we are building a resilient agricultural sector that supports national development and improves livelihoods across rural communities.”
Dr. Ozonia Ojielo, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Rwanda, underscored the collective commitment of the UN system: “This Joint Programme reflects the United Nations’ commitment to supporting Rwanda’s vision for sustainable development. By bringing together multiple agencies, government institutions, and private-sector partners, we are creating a powerful platform to mobilize resources, scale innovation, and accelerate progress toward inclusive and climate-resilient food systems.”
The launch event convened government ministries, district authorities, development partners, financial institutions, agribusinesses, cooperatives, and UN agencies to align priorities and reinforce commitments for effective implementation.
The programme is designed to de-risk private investment, strengthen value chains, and expand financial inclusion, ensuring that farmers and small enterprises can access the tools, capital, and knowledge needed to scale sustainable production.
By fostering coordinated action among public and private stakeholders, the initiative aims to expand the adoption of climate-smart agricultural technologies, strengthen the investment readiness of agri-MSMEs and cooperatives, improve access to finance across agricultural value chains, and advance inclusive economic growth and food security in vulnerable districts across Rwanda.
The Joint SDG Fund Food Systems Transformation Window was established through a partnership between the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub and the Joint SDG Fund Secretariat to support government-led food systems transformation and accelerate progress across the SDGs.
This joint programme is supported by the Joint SDG Fund in collaboration with the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub.
The European Union and the governments of Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland have been also commended for their contributions in accelerating progress towards the SDGs.
The launch marks a pivotal milestone in building a shared platform for collaboration and sustained partnership, accelerating Rwanda’s journey toward a resilient, competitive, and inclusive agrifood system.
Participants at the launch of the Rwanda Green Food Future programme./@FAORwandaDr. Patrick Karangwa, Director General of Agriculture Modernisation at the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources speaking at the launch. Dr. Ozonia Ojielo, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Rwanda, underscored the collective commitment of the UN system.
Rather than a simple list of attractions, Rwanda unfolds as an interconnected journey, where wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and lakeside retreats flow seamlessly together, and every adventure feels part of a larger story. This thoughtful balance is what makes Rwanda a standout choice for travelers in 2026: a destination that leaves a lasting impression, offering both authenticity and unforgettable moments.
Your journey often begins in Kigali, one of Africa’s cleanest and most welcoming capitals. The city’s impeccably tidy streets reflect a longstanding commitment to the environment, starting with the groundbreaking 2008 plastic bag ban and reinforced by nationwide community clean-up efforts.
This green ethos extends far beyond the city: Rwanda maintains around 30% forest cover through ambitious tree-planting campaigns and wetland restorations that curb flooding, boost biodiversity, and create urban gems like the Nyandungu Urban Wetland Eco-Tourism Park, with its scenic trails and over 100 bird species.
Layered onto this foundation is an unwavering reputation for safety, stability, and efficient infrastructure, making Rwanda genuinely accessible and reassuring for families, solo adventurers, and everyone in between.
Heading north to Volcanoes National Park, the experience becomes truly transformative. Here, mountain gorillas, now numbering close to 1,080 worldwide, thanks to relentless anti-poaching and habitat protection, offer one of wildlife’s most profound encounters.
The annual Kwita Izina ceremony, celebrating its 20th edition in September 2025, named 40 baby gorillas (bringing the total named since 2005 to nearly 400).
This vibrant tradition blends Rwandan cultural heritage with global conservation support, while gorilla trekking permits sustain high-value tourism. Crucially, 10% of park revenues flow back to surrounding communities through sharing programs, funding schools, clinics, clean water, and more, transforming local residents into active stewards of their shared heritage.
Eastward, Akagera National Park showcases the power of rewilding. Lions, reintroduced in 2015, now thrive with a population of about 70 individuals through natural growth. Rhinos have made a bold return, highlighted by the historic translocation of 70 southern white rhinos in June 2025—the largest single operation of its kind in Rwanda’s history.
These achievements, driven by strong partnerships and zero poaching losses for key species since reintroduction, have restored classic Big Five safaris across sweeping savannas, lakes, and wetlands.
To the south lies Nyungwe Forest National Park, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023. As one of Africa’s oldest montane rainforests, it pulses with life: chimpanzees, rare birds, suspended canopy walks, and unparalleled biodiversity within the Albertine Rift.
Ongoing restoration efforts only deepen its global significance. Rwanda’s protected areas continue to evolve, with the newer Gishwati-Mukura National Park safeguarding regenerating forests home to Eastern chimpanzees and golden monkeys, opening fresh avenues for eco-tourism and community empowerment.
Beyond the parks, the country’s scenic shores, especially along Lake Kivu, offer tranquil lakeside lodges, cultural villages, and relaxed immersion, rounding out a portfolio that balances adventure with serenity.
Hospitality here mirrors this thoughtful approach: elevated yet unobtrusive, sustainable, and deeply connected to place. In Volcanoes, standout lodges like Singita Kwitonda (with sweeping volcano views), One&Only Gorilla’s Nest (nestled in eucalyptus groves), and Bisate Lodge (with its innovative, tradition-inspired pods) set benchmarks for luxury and responsibility.
In Nyungwe, One&Only Nyungwe House harmonizes with surrounding tea plantations; in Akagera, Magashi Camp delivers intimate wilderness immersion. These are just highlights in a landscape dotted with exceptional options, from misty highlands to serene lakesides and vibrant urban edges, ensuring every traveler finds spaces to rest, reflect, and reconnect.
This is merely a glimpse; Rwanda pulses with more: emerging trails, ziplines, cultural encounters, adventure pursuits, and new developments that keep the destination fresh and forward-looking.
The vision guiding it all is measured yet ambitious. From $647 million in tourism revenue in 2024 (boosted by a 27% surge in gorilla tourism), Rwanda eyes over $700 million in 2025, with a longer-term goal of $1.1 billion annually by 2029.
This growth stems from smart diversification; into Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), sports, nature-based experiences, and more, while redefining what sustainable African tourism can look like, ensuring revenues regenerate communities, spark positive change, and let visitors connect with genuine hope.
This photo shows the canopy walkway in Nyungwe National Park. Tourists take a leisurely cruise across a lake in Akagera National Park.Tourists can enjoy a variety of breathtaking scenic views.Akagera National Park is home to the big five animals.
The Tour du Rwanda 2026 is currently rolling across the “Land of a Thousand Hills”, and while on paper it’s a UCI 2.1 cycling race, to anyone standing on the roadside, it feels more like a national carnival.
Now in its 18th edition as an international event, the Tour has grown from a local race into one of Africa’s premier cycling competitions. Following the massive success of the historic 2025 World Championships held right here in Rwanda, this year’s Tour feels like a victory lap for an entire continent.
Here is why this race is so much more than just a bike ride.
1. The “Mur de Kigali” is our colosseum
In European cycling, fans talk about the cobbled climbs of Flanders. In Rwanda, the Mur de Kigali demands the same awe. This steep, cobblestone climb winds through the lively streets of Nyamirambo, where the energy of the crowd meets the grit of the riders.
Tour du Rwanda 2017: Joseph Areruya and Eritrean Eyob Metkel climb the Mur de Kigali, the legendary cobblestone climb, one of the toughest challenges awaiting global cycling stars.
Streets packed with cheering spectators transform each pedal stroke into a test of endurance, courage, and sheer will. When a Rwandan rider leads up “The Wall,” the roar of the crowd echoes across the surrounding hills.
Thousands of fans line the streets, standing along sidewalks, slopes, and open areas near the climb. You’ll see grandmothers cheering next to teenagers, all drawn together by the sight of elite athletes powering up a 12% incline.
When the peloton powers up the Mur de Kigali, the cheers ripple across the surrounding hills, filling the neighborhood with energy and excitement. Fans clap, wave, and call out encouragement as riders tackle the steep climb, making the moment feel like a shared celebration of effort and endurance.
It has become a norm for locals to turn up along the road and on top of their buildings to witness the race.
2. A “stadium” without walls
Most sports require a ticket and a seat. The Tour du Rwanda requires a front porch and a pair of lungs.
Because the 2026 route stretches across nearly 1,000 kilometres of the country, from the rolling highlands of northern Rwanda to the palm-fringed shores of Lake Kivu, it brings the spectacle to the people. It’s estimated that over 2 million people line the roads.
Crowds gather to cheer on the elite riders.
For a few minutes, every village becomes the centre of the world. Rural farmers and urban residents alike watch the same drama unfold as the peloton passes by, united in the excitement of the race.
3. Cycling is part of life in Rwanda
To understand why Rwandans love this race, you have to look at the “abanyonzi” taxi-velo riders. In Rwanda, the bicycle isn’t just for fitness; it’s a lifeline.
Bicycles are common in rural Rwandan villages and are often used to transport farm produce like green bananas.
Every day, thousands of Rwandans use bikes to transport massive loads of ibitoke (green bananas), heavy milk jugs, or charcoal across impossible inclines. There is a deep, cultural respect for anyone who can conquer a hill on two wheels.
When locals watch a pro athlete fly up a mountain that they usually struggle to climb with a load of crops, there is an instant, visceral connection. It’s a celebration of the hustle that defines Rwandan rural life.
4. A high-def tour of the “new Rwanda”
The Tour is arguably Rwanda’s most effective “business card” to the world. As the cameras follow the peloton, the world sees not just sweat; but also the results of a nation’s transformation.
Tour du Rwanda showcases Rwanda’s incredible transformation to the world.
The 2026 footage showcases the pristine, plastic-free streets of Kigali, the lush green tea plantations of the West, and the world-class infrastructure that makes this the safest and cleanest cycling environment in Africa. It’s a source of immense national pride, a way for Rwandans to say, “This is who we are now.”
6. The “Africa’s turn” momentum
For decades, professional cycling was a closed-off European club. The Tour du Rwanda changed that narrative. As the premier stage for African talent, this race is where the next global stars, like Samuel Niyonkuru or Henok Mulubrhan, prove they belong on the world stage.
In the wake of the 2025 UCI World Championships, the 2026 Tour feels like the start of a new era. It’s no longer about hosting a race; it’s about owning the sport. For every kid on the side of the road in Rubavu or Gicumbi watching the peloton fly by, that bike represents a path to the world stage.
The funding supports farmer training, capacity building, and modern production techniques aimed at strengthening food security and raising farm incomes.
The progress was highlighted during a consultative meeting that brought together SAIP-supported farmers from Huye District on February 24, 2026. The meeting focused on exchanging experience and identifying practical ways to further increase yields.
Launched in 2024, SAIP II operates in 20 districts across Rwanda. Among beneficiaries is farmer Darius Havugarurema, who grows fruits on more than five hectares. Before receiving SAIP training, the land had largely remained idle, producing only once every seven years.
With project support, he received over 7,000 fruit seedlings, including tomato trees, passion fruit, and avocado, along with a diesel-powered irrigation system and more than 800 meters of piping. The investment totaled nearly Rwf 40 million, half of which was subsidized by the project. He said the transformation allowed him to fully commit to commercial farming, with initial harvests generating between Rwf 6 and 7 million.
Support has also extended to agro-processing. Entrepreneur Mutabaruka Théophile, who operates a rice processing plant in Sovu Industrial Zone in Huye District, said SAIP backing helped expand his operations.
He has since established a Rwf 650-million-animal feed factory, receiving Rwf 140 million in project support. The facility is expected to process six tons per hour.
He noted that by-products from rice processing that were previously discarded will now be converted into livestock feed, while strengthened links with maize and soybean farmers supported by SAIP will ensure a steady supply of raw materials.
Farmer cooperatives have also benefited. The Tuzamurane Cooperative, which grows maize, beans, and vegetables in Ruvungirana Marshland in Ruhashya Sector, received training that reached all members.
Cooperative leaders say new practices, such as planting protective vegetation along roadsides to prevent flooding, have improved resilience while creating additional income sources.
Members were also equipped with harvesting tents that allowed them to gather and protect crops from post-harvest losses.
SAIP Project Coordinator at RAB-SPIU, Mutabaruka Ezra, said the initiative aims to expand sustainable agriculture by improving irrigation, particularly small-scale irrigation, while strengthening post-harvest handling, storage, and market access.
Beyond field production, the project is supporting broader agricultural infrastructure, including the construction of eight storage facilities, cold rooms and cold trucks for transport of fruits and vegetables, construction of more than 200 greenhouses, and modern farming machinery, investments expected to deliver long-term gains in food production.
Overall, SAIP II represents a $20 million investment, with irrigation alone accounting for $5.7 million.
Darius Havugarurema grows fruits on more than five hectares.
The announcement was made on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, during events marking 25 years of community-based health insurance in Rwanda, held in Rusera Cell, Kabarondo Sector, Kayonza District. The occasion also marked the launch of new reforms aimed at strengthening community-based health insurance services nationwide.
Mutuelle de Santé is one of the Government’s flagship social protection programs, built on the principle of solidarity and designed to ensure that healthcare remains accessible to all citizens. It reflects Rwanda’s long-standing policy of placing citizens’ wellbeing at the center of national development.
When the scheme began, each citizen paid 1,000 Rwandan Francs annually. In 2011, the contribution rose to Rwf 3,000 . Under the new structure, fully government-supported beneficiaries will now receive coverage valued at Rwf 4,000 per person.
Citizens in the second level of social registry will pay Rwf 3,000 with a Rwf 1,000- government subsidy. Those in the third level will pay Rwf 5,000; the fourth level, Rwf 8,000; while individuals in the fifth level will contribute Rwf 20,000 per year.
RSSB estimates that about 90 percent of members will pay between Rwf 4,000 and Rwf 8,000 annually.
RSSB Director General Regis Rugemanshuro explained that, historically, citizens’ contributions covered about 67 percent of healthcare costs. However, as the cost of services rose and coverage expanded, that share dropped to 34 percent.
Over the past decade, total spending under Mutuelle de Santé more than doubled, from Rwf 39 billion in 2015/2016 to Rwf 98 billion in 2024/2025. The increase is largely attributed to the rising cost of healthcare and the addition of high-cost services.
Newly covered treatments include cancer care, kidney treatment, organ replacement, orthopedic and spinal surgery, and assistive devices for people with hearing or vision impairments. These services, many of which have been covered for the past two years, significantly increased the program’s financial demands.
Rugemanshuro noted that although services expanded, contributions had not changed since 2011. Last year alone, Mutuelle de Santé spent Rwf 98 billion, while members contributed only Rwf 31 billion, about 34 percent of total funding.
The remaining resources came from government support, including revenues from telecommunications taxes, fuel levies, and other funding streams.
Even with the new contribution rates, citizens’ payments will account for about 42 percent of total program financing, with the government continuing to cover the majority share. Around 70 percent of Rwandans are expected to pay no more than Rwf 5,000 annually, while only about 8 percent will pay Rwf 20,000.
Number of covered medicines to nearly double
Minister of Health Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana said the contribution adjustment is directly linked to improved treatment access. The number of medicines available under Mutuelle de Santé will increase from 845 to 1,450.
He emphasized that, considering the breadth of services now covered, contributions could have exceeded Rwf 50,000 per person if the government had not stepped in with substantial subsidies.
“Today, patients can receive treatment for conditions that would normally cost Rwf 10 to 20 million, heart disease, kidney conditions, and major surgeries, under Mutuelle de Santé,” he said. “Someone who used to pay Rwf 3,000 is now asked to pay Rwf 5,000 francs if they are able.”
Cancer treatment will now be fully covered under Mutuelle de Santé, including diagnostics, imaging, medication, and related care. Kidney dialysis, previously limited to eight sessions, will now be available as needed. Major heart surgery, often costing at least Rwf 10 million, will also be accessible through the scheme.
The minister added that the government will begin advancing funds to health centers for medicine procurement so that patients consistently find drugs available at facilities. The measure is intended to eliminate shortages previously caused by delayed reimbursements from RSSB.
Residents speak out
Celestin Niyonsaba, a 75-year-old resident of Kabarondo praised the scheme, recalling that in 2018 he underwent abdominal surgery at University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK) costing Rwf 3 million francs but paid only 52,000 because he had Mutuelle de Santé coverage.
“Since then, I never delay paying,” he said. “Without Mutuelle de Santé, I would have sold my house or land. Instead, I sold a goat, received treatment, and recovered.”
Josephine Barakagwira from Rusera also welcomed the reform, noting she once paid Rwf 3,000 francs and received surgery that would otherwise have cost over one million Rwandan francs. She acknowledged that while some households face financial constraints, the program remains highly valuable.
Citizens have been urged to begin paying the new rates now to ensure uninterrupted access to healthcare starting July 1, 2026.
Mutuelle de Santé spent Rwf 98 billion, while members contributed only Rwf 31 billion, about 34 percent of total funding last year.
According to Rwanda’s Ministry of Defence, the initiative was carried out by Rwanda Battle Group 8 in collaboration with the Rwanda Level 2 Hospital contingent, it aimed to address essential health needs within the prison community by offering a wide range of medical services, including internal medicine consultations, gynecological care, dental treatment, and other critical healthcare support.
The activity was attended by the Director of Bria Prison, Mahamat Adoum Salle; the Commander of the Rwanda Level 2 Hospital, Col Dr. Christian Mukwesi; and the Commander of Rwanda Battle Group 8, Lieutenant Col David Ngabonziza.
In his welcoming remarks, Bria Prison Director Mahamat Adoum Salle expressed sincere gratitude to MINUSCA leadership and the Rwandan peacekeepers for their timely intervention. He described MINUSCA as a longstanding and reliable partner in various areas of support and commended the medical outreach as a strong example of effective cooperation.
He further highlighted the challenges prisoners face in accessing medical care, particularly due to shortage of essential medicines and medical supplies.
“When prisoners experience health problems, we take them to the hospital where medication is prescribed, but obtaining those medicines is often difficult,” he explained. “It is therefore extremely important that the Rwandan peacekeepers under MINUSCA have come to provide free medical treatment to our inmates.”
Col Dr. Christian Mukwesi, Commander of the Rwanda Level 2 Hospital, stated that the outreach was guided by the fundamental peacekeeping principle of protecting civilians.
“This medical outreach at Bria Prison demonstrates our commitment not only to maintaining security but also to promote the well-being, dignity, and fundamental rights of every individual. Health is a universal right, not a privilege. By offering free medical consultations, treatment, and preventive care to prisoners, we reaffirm that every human life is precious and deserves compassion,” he said.
The activity was attended by the Director of Bria Prison, Mahamat Adoum Salle; the Commander of the Rwanda Level 2 Hospital, Col Dr. Christian Mukwesi; and the Commander of Rwanda Battle Group 8, Lieutenant Col David Ngabonziza.The contingent offered a wide range of medical services, including internal medicine consultations, gynecological care, dental treatment, and other critical healthcare support.The exercise was conducted on Tuesday, February 24, 2025, conducted a medical outreach at Bria Prison.
Speaking before Members of Parliament, Dr. Arakwiye acknowledged rising public complaints over delays in accessing land-related services, attributing the backlog to a sharp increase in applications and the limited capacity of the existing digital infrastructure.
When LAIS was first introduced, it processed about 15,000 files annually. Today, the system handles more than 800,000 files each year. Official figures indicate that 376,686 land files were recorded in 2023, rising to over 750,000 in 2024 and surpassing 864,000 in 2025, more than doubling within a short period.
The minister explained that expanded access to land services has significantly contributed to the surge. Previously offered mainly at the provincial level, services are now delivered at sector offices, through land committees at cell level, and via the government’s online services platform, Irembo. Twelve of the most requested land services have been digitised, while private notaries and survey assistants have been authorised to facilitate certain processes.
“Previously, services were provided at provincial level, but now they have been decentralised to sector level, with land committees established at cell level,” she said.
LAIS has also been integrated with other government systems, including tax platforms and the national auction system, enabling institutions to directly obtain land documentation where required, without citizens having to make separate applications.
Staffing within LAIS has grown from 80 employees at its launch to 150 currently, with more than 1,000 additional users extracting information from the system. However, government projections show that the platform will need to accommodate up to 3,000 personnel to manage current and future demand effectively.
Authorities say planned upgrades to system capacity, workforce expansion, and deeper institutional integration are expected to ease bottlenecks and improve the efficiency of land service delivery nationwide.
Authorities say the Land Administration Information System (LAIS) will need the capacity to support at least 3,000 staff who manage digital maps and land data to meet growing demand for land services.
In a statement released by Tour du Rwanda management, organisers confirmed the accident and expressed their deep condolences to the families affected. The injured are receiving care, and authorities are closely monitoring their condition.
“We extend our sincere condolences to the families and remain committed to public safety,” the statement read in part.
The Rwanda National Police has launched an investigation into the incident.
Candy Basomingera, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports, expressed sorrow over the accident and stressed the need for vigilance on the roads during the race.
“This reminds us of the importance of being vigilant on the road as we drive and cheer on the riders. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims, and we wish a quick recovery to those who have been injured,” she said.
Israeli cyclist Itamar Einhorn of NSN Devo Team won the first stage of the race, completing the 174 km from Rukomo to Rwamagana in a time of 4:00:05.02 and earning the first yellow jersey.
The 2026 edition, marking the 18th Tour du Rwanda since it gained international status, runs from February 22 to March 1, covering eight stages and nearly 1,000 km. Riders will face more than 16,000 meters of total elevation gain over the week, living up to Rwanda’s nickname as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
A total of 18 teams are competing, including four Rwandan squads.
The first stage of Tour du Rwanda 2026 covered 174 km from Rukomo to Rwamagana. This year’s edition marks the 18th Tour du Rwanda since it gained international status in 2009.
The minister was responding to Congolese government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya, who had downplayed the threat posed by the militia group formed by the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi who fled to the DRC.
Muyaya had questioned whether members of the FDLR could still pose a threat 32 years later, calling the group an “eternal pretext” in regional tensions.
Responding in detail, Nduhungirehe rejected that argument outright.
“The misleading propaganda of the Congolese government on the issue of the genocidal FDLR nevertheless has its limits,” the minister wrote.
He recalled that on March 21, 2024, during the first ministerial meeting under the Luanda Process, then DRC Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula had committed to presenting a “plan for the neutralisation of the FDLR.”
“In the final communiqué of that meeting, it was even specified that ‘consequently’ to the neutralisation of the FDLR, Rwanda would lift its defensive measures,” Nduhungirehe stated.
However, he pointed to what he called a sudden reversal only days later.
“We were surprised to hear, two days later in a press conference in Kinshasa, the same Christophe Lutundula claim that the FDLR did not exist,” he said.
The minister also cited a planned 2024 operation by the Congolese armed forces (FARDC), coordinated with the United States and aimed at targeting FDLR positions, describing it as a total failure.
“This military operation was a total failure, for the simple reason that a FARDC general had informed his FDLR friends in advance,” Nduhungirehe stated, adding that the development had angered international partners.
Despite that setback, he noted that military and intelligence experts from Rwanda, the DRC and mediator Angola later adopted a Concept of Operations (CONOPS) in Luanda on October 31, 2024, focused on neutralising the FDLR.
According to Nduhungirehe, the CONOPS became a key pillar of subsequent peace understandings.
“The neutralisation of the FDLR is therefore a central element of the Washington Agreements and for a lasting peace in eastern DRC,” he wrote.
But he questioned Kinshasa’s commitment, noting that coordination meetings between FARDC and FDLR commanders took place on the very day the CONOPS was endorsed.
“This demonstrates the lack of political will in Kinshasa on the FDLR issue,” he argued.
Addressing Muyaya’s assertion that the group’s age diminishes its relevance, Nduhungirehe dismissed the reasoning as flawed.
“This eternal argument about the age of FDLR members is one of the most absurd and ridiculous there is,” he said, adding that the group “regularly recruits new members on the basis of its genocidal ideology.”
Muyaya had claimed that the real drivers of instability in eastern DRC are natural resources, including gold and coltan, rather than the FDLR.
Earlier this month, President Paul Kagame dismissed claims that Rwanda was targeting DRC minerals, insisting that the country’s concerns were primarily about security and the FDLR’s genocidal ideology.
“If we were in Congo for minerals, we would be a hundred times richer than we are now […] the threats coming from Congo related to our security have materialised several times. You just don’t want to see it, you don’t want to hear it,” he stated during the 20th edition of Umushyikirano, Rwanda’s National Dialogue Council.
Minister Nduhungirehe slammed Patrick Muyaya over the DRC government’s repeated contradictions on the FDLR.
