These returnees included families with children, elderly parents, and young people who had spent their formative years in Rwanda, some of whom had accessed education and built new lives there. While many expressed joy at returning to their country of origin, others shared feelings of sadness at leaving behind friends and the life they had grown accustomed to in Rwanda.

Authorities and partners overseeing refugee affairs confirmed that the repatriation process went smoothly, following voluntary return protocols and providing assistance with documentation, healthcare, and support for planning a new start.

Some of the returnees had lived in Rwanda for over ten years, and they expressed hope of reconnecting with remaining family members, rebuilding their lives, and contributing to peace and development in Burundi.

This repatriation marks a new chapter of hope for those who had sought refuge abroad, and it demonstrates the cooperation between Rwanda and Burundi in managing refugee movements while supporting safe and dignified returns.