A total of 20 defence attachés representing 17 countries visited the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Centre in Musanze District on Friday, November 28, where they observed the country's reintegration program for ex-combatants into civilian life. The facility hosts combatants predominantly those returning from armed groups in eastern DR Congo. ALSO READ: Demob commission warns against militia recruitment in Rubavu The group of defence attaches included representatives from the United States (USA), China, France, Japan, UK, Russia, Zimbabwe, Germany, Tanzania, and Angola, among others. Valerie Nyirahabineza, the Chairperson of the country's demobilisation commission, said receiving the delegation was a valuable opportunity to clarify misconceptions where many lies surrounding the FDLR are circulated. She added the she was happy to see the envoys get firsthand information. JUST IN: A total of 20 Defence Attaches representing 17 countries are visiting the #Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC) at Mutobo Center in Musanze district. The group, including representatives from the USA, China, France, Tanzania, and Angola is meeting... pic.twitter.com/NGSxW58ldD — The New Times (Rwanda) (@NewTimesRwanda) November 28, 2025 I am very happy that they interacted with them [ex-combatants] here, and were very eager to get testimonies from them, the Chairperson told journalists. We expect them to tell the truth because they have witnessed many people we have so far received,” she added. “This confirms that the FDLR is still a threat as it continues operating from the eastern DR Congo’s jungles, she added. Speaking on behalf of Rwanda Military Attachés Association, Lt. Col. Jessica Borowicz, the US Defence Attaché, expressed her gratitude calling the tour incredible and insightful”. We have learned a lot, and it was very insightful and eye-opening, she said. ALSO READ: Congolese army jailed me, broke my leg, says Rwandan returnee For ex-combatants like Lt. Col. (Rtd) Emelien Mpakaniye, a former FDLR fighter who is currently at Mutobo Demobilisation Center, the country's warm welcome should motivate others remaining in the jungle to return to their home country. “Lay down arms and return home, collaborate with others to build the country, Mpakaniye said, highlighting that there is a need for continued mobilisation to motivate others to come back.”
