Why former FDLR fighters are returning to Rwanda
Summary
Jean Claude Hategekimana, a former fighter of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), left the armed group and returned to Rwanda to start a civilian life. The Mutobo Demobilisation and Reintegration Centre in northern Rwanda helps former fighters like him by providing medical care, psychological support, and assistance with reconnecting with their families.Key Facts
- Jean Claude Hategekimana joined the FDLR armed group in 2018 and reached the rank of captain.
- The FDLR is a group formed after the 1994 genocide and has been accused by Rwanda of attacks and causing insecurity.
- Hategekimana feared for his life upon return because the FDLR taught fighters that returnees would be killed.
- The Mutobo Centre was set up in 2001 to help members of the FDLR and other groups come back from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
- The centre offers medical care, psychological help, civic education, and helps returnees connect with family and community.
- Returnees can visit their former communities during rehabilitation to rebuild trust and confidence.
- Other former commanders also left the FDLR due to family ties, disappointment with the group, and safety concerns.
- Major-General Anastase Munyaneza, a former commander, left the FDLR after seeing his family rebuild their lives in Rwanda.
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