The group arrived around late morning via the La Corniche border, which connects Rubavu in Rwanda to Goma in DRC. Upon arrival, they were warmly received by UNHCR Rwanda Representative Ritu Shroff, alongside local authorities, highlighting Rwanda’s continued commitment to assisting its citizens returning from abroad.

Following the reception, the returnees were transported to the Kijote Transit Centre in Rusizi District, a facility that has long been used to support Rwandans returning from Congo.

At the centre, the returnees will receive basic assistance, including daily food rations of Frw 45 per person, and financial support to help them rebuild their lives $188 for adults and $113 for minors.

This repatriation operation follows the outcomes of a tri-partite meeting held in Addis Ababa on July 24, 2025, between Rwanda, DRC, and UNHCR, which focused on facilitating voluntary returns of Rwandans living in Congo. According to the Ministry in charge of emergency management, 5,831 Rwandans have returned since that agreement.

This initiative reflects ongoing regional cooperation and Rwanda’s efforts to ensure safe and dignified reintegration for its citizens returning from abroad.