Congolese refugees who fled to Rwanda begin returning home

Congolese refugees who had fled to Rwanda in the Rubavu District due to the fighting in the city of Goma have started to return to their homes in Goma.

Rwanda’s Deputy Government Spokesperson Alain Mukurarinda told Kigali Today that refugees wishing to return are allowed to do so.

He stated, “Around 100 people have already requested to return, and we are not preventing them because they have information that their homes are safe.”

The refugees, estimated to number around 500, had fled to Rwanda in Rubavu District to escape the fighting in Goma between FARDC (Congolese Armed Forces) and M23 rebels, which began on January 26, 2025.

Most of the refugees who fled to Rwanda came from the Birere, Majengo, Mabanga, and Ndosho areas of Goma, citing heavy gunfire in their neighborhoods. They sought refuge in Rwanda, hoping for safety.

The main border crossing between Goma and Gisenyi is currently being used by people from Goma who are trying to enter Rwanda, as well as by Congolese nationals returning to their country.