Minister Mugenzi calls on ex-combatants to embrace unity, resilience

The Minister of Local Government, Patrice Mugenzi, urged combatants discharged on Friday, March 28, to actively contribute to national unity and resilience for the nation's good future. Minister Mugenzi said this while addressing 47 former members of the FDLR genocidal based in DR Congo, who were being sent home to their respective communities. ALSO READ: How FDLR recruits, holds children hostage Our strength lies in our unity, Mugenzi told them. “Having experienced life in the jungles, I encourage you to use this opportunity to promote national unity for a bright future of the generations to come.” ALSO READ: FDLR leaders fed us lies about life in Rwanda – ex-combatant Based on your positive experiences here, please encourage those who remain behind to return home and join us in building our nation. Valerie Nyirahabineza, the Chairperson of Rwanda Demobilization and Reintegration Commission (RDRC), praised the ex-combatants for their decision to return to Rwanda. ALSO READ: Ex-combatants get 20 new houses Their return, driven by positive reports from those who came before them, signifies a growing trust in the nation's stability, Nyirahabineza stated. On Friday, the ex-militia fighters were discharged after spending three months at the camp in Mutobo where ex-combatants get requisite general sensitization and counselling regarding civilian life, HIV/AIDS voluntary counselling and testing, and special needs for women and toddlers that accompany them are catered for, among others. Olivier Cyuzuzo, a former combatant, talked about his challenging experiences in DR Congo after joining FDLR at 16. “We could hardly get food, clothes and everything. We endured severe hardships. It was a difficult journey, but I eventually decided to return to Rwanda. I travelled for three weeks before arriving here.”

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Minister Mugenzi calls on ex-combatants to embrace unity, resilience