Minister of Local Government, Hon. Habimana Dominique, has called on ex-combatants discharged from the Mutobo Demobilization Centre to uphold Rwanda’s unity and continue contributing to the country’s socio-economic transformation.

Presiding over the 75th official discharge ceremony on Thursday, 30 October 2025, in Musanze District, Minister Habimana officially welcomed 143 ex-members of armed groups — including former FDLR combatants — back into Rwandan society.

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting their reintegration and empowerment, stressing that unity and security remain the foundation of national development.

“I urge you to uphold Rwanda’s core values of unity, patriotism, and resilience. Never betray these values. As you reintegrate, remain supportive of national programs that drive our socio-economic progress,” he said.

One of the discharged returnees, Claudine Mukamana, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to rebuild her life and urged those still in foreign armed groups to voluntarily repatriate.

“I am here to testify that I am safe and living with my family in Rwanda. I encourage others still in the forests to return home and reintegrate rather than continue living a difficult life in the jungle,” she said.

During the ceremony, 135 ex-combatants who completed vocational and technical skills training at Mutobo TVET School also graduated and received toolkits to support their immediate entry into productive economic activities.

Since 2001, Rwanda has successfully demobilized 12,602 adult ex-members of armed groups. The Government has provided former combatants and their families with civic education, skills-building, and socio-economic support, reinforcing the country’s commitment to peace, unity, and inclusive development.