Musanze District, On 20^th July 2023, the 69^th intake of 92 ex-armed group members were discharged after undergoing five months of rehabilitation and reintegration programs including TVET studies, literacy & numeracy lessons, unity and reconciliation, and patriotism to name a few at Mutobo Demobilisation and Reintegration Centre located in Musanze District.

Among 92 ex-combatants (20 women) discharged include 30 former soldiers and 43 civilians, and 19 former convicts who were pardoned by H.E the President of the Republic early this year.

Minister of Local Government Musabyimana Jean Claude who officiated the discharge ceremony as the guest of honor thanked the ex-combatants for the wise decision they made to surrender and return to their Country.

“I encourage you to hold dear the principle of unity and resilience of Rwandans. You should never try to sabotage the socio-economic progress and the security we have achieved, instead go back to your respective families, and join hands with others in sustaining this milestone.” Minister Musabyimana said.

“You were given skills in different domains including masonry, domestic electricity, crop production, hair dressing, tailoring, welding and automobile mechanics which gives you an opportunity to access the job market, I challenge you to make use of those skills and improve the life of your families and the country.” Minister added.

Minister Musabyimana also called upon families and communities of the discharged ex-combatants and Rwandan society at large to receive them well and try to help them to settle and reintegrate in the society.

Discharged ex-combatants thank the Government of Rwandan for a dignified reception regardless of the activities they were involved in; and they express that they are ready to go back in their families and contribute to the development of the country.

For more pictures: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAN5ib

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