DRC:RWANDAN REFUGEES IN” DANGER”
The Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo
The Government of the Republic of Rwanda
The Government of the United States of America
The Government of the State of Qatar
Humanitarian and Human Rights Organisations (UNHCR, OHCHR)
Local and International Media,
RE: Urgent Appeal Regarding the Situation of Rwandan Refugees in the Democratic Republic of Congo
We, the undersigned spokespersons of the Rwandan Refugee Community worldwide, express our profound concern regarding the ongoing plight of Rwandan refugees globally, and in particular, those residing in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Despite the recent peace efforts in Doha and the agreement concluded in Washington on 27 June 2025, between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Rwanda, the situation of Rwandan refugees continues to be overlooked and unresolved:
The recent peace talks have focused mainly on Congolese refugees in Rwanda, while neglecting the pressing concerns of Rwandan refugees in the DRC.
Rwandan refugees are frequently and wrongly associated with the FDLR (Forces Démocratiques de Libération du Rwanda), which exposes them to stigmatisation, discrimination, and persecution.
In some cases, they are incorrectly assimilated with Congolese Kinyarwanda-speaking communities or with Congolese Hutu groups, further complicating their protection.
Since their exile in 1994, Rwandan refugees in the DRC have not benefited from sustained humanitarian assistance, face ongoing insecurity, and remain uncertain about their future.
We respectfully urge humanitarian and human rights organisations, particularly UNHCR and OHCHR, to:
- Recognise and protect the refugee status and rights of Rwandan refugees in the DRC, including issuing identity and travel documents.
- Ensure safety and dignity through possible resettlement in secure locations or third countries.
- Guarantee voluntary and dignified repatriation, while firmly opposing any forced returns.
- Provide essential humanitarian assistance to secure survival, safety, and access to fundamental rights.
We call upon the international community to take immediate and concrete measures to address this humanitarian concern. Specifically, we request:
Greater diplomatic and humanitarian engagement to secure protection for Rwandan refugees in the DRC.
Increased media coverage to raise global awareness of their plight.
The convening of a roundtable dialogue involving the DRC, Rwanda, UNHCR, and refugee representatives to identify urgent solutions.
We urge all relevant actors to take this matter into urgent consideration and to act swiftly to safeguard the rights, dignity, and future of Rwandan refugees in the Democratic Republic of Congo that have endured neglect and hardship since their displacement in 1994.
Respectfully submitted,
The Rwandan Refugee Community Worldwide Spokespersons’:
Mr. Emmanuel Senga
Tel: +919 338 3113 | Email: sebusenga47@gmail.com
Mr. Joram Siborurema
Tel: +268 7683 0291 | Email: bihobejo@gmail.com
written by Obed Ndahayo (son of a priest)