At the Mutobo Demobilisation and Reintegration Centre in northern Rwanda's Musanze province, former combatants who spent years within armed factions are attempting to transition back to civilian life. The facility primarily handles individuals returning from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, including former members of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR).

According to testimonies gathered at the centre, members were allegedly indoctrinated with the belief that returning to Rwanda would result in immediate execution. However, returnees stated that upon crossing back, they realized these claims were entirely fabricated by the leadership, prompting feelings of deep disillusionment regarding their years spent in the forests.

Several high-ranking former commanders shared their motivations for abandoning the armed group. Former commander Anastase Munyaneza noted that learning about his family's peaceful and productive lives back in Rwanda made him question his continued participation in the insurgency. He reportedly utilized assistance from the United Nations mission in the DRC to facilitate his safe passage to the border.

The rehabilitation framework at Mutobo provides comprehensive medical care, psychosocial support, civic education, and vocational training to ease the transition. Officials state that the average stay lasts approximately five months, during which participants are also permitted supervised visits to their home communities to rebuild trust and prepare for final discharge.

Source: www.aljazeera.com