Congolese refugees living in Rwanda’s Mahama camp have mixed feelings about a newly endorsed United Nations roadmap for voluntary repatriation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). While the plan promises a safe and dignified return, many remain wary of lingering security threats and unresolved ethnic tensions in their homeland.
A Long Wait for Homecoming
For decades, thousands of Congolese have lived as refugees in Rwanda, fleeing violence in North Kivu since the 1990s. Mahama Camp, established in 2015, now hosts over 27,000 Congolese refugees, many of whom have known no other home.
One refugee, who arrived in 1996, shared his story: “I am Congolese. My great-grandparents were born in Congo before colonialists drew borders. But we were forced to flee persecution by armed groups like the FDLR. For years, we were rejected by Congolese authorities simply because we speak Kinyarwanda.”
Another refugee, a mother of six, all born in Rwanda, expressed her dilemma: “Some of my relatives are still in Congo, suffering. My firstborn is now 23—Rwanda is the only home my children know.”
A Path to Repatriation—But Is It Safe?
In July 2025, Rwanda, the DRC, and the UN Refugee Agency agreed on a roadmap for voluntary returns, backed by recent peace efforts, including the Washington Agreement (June 2025) and the Doha Declaration (July 2025). These deals aim to stabilize the Great Lakes region and encourage refugee repatriation.
However, skepticism remains. “We hope the agreement ensures armed groups leave before we return,” said one refugee. “I would rather stay in this camp if I’m not sure I’ll survive back home or if I’ll still be called ‘Rwandan’ in Congo.”
Rwanda’s Stance: Voluntary and Dignified Returns
Rwandan officials emphasize that repatriation must be voluntary. A representative stated, “With regional and international efforts, we hope refugees can return safely. But return is always a choice.”
For now, Mahama’s residents remain caught between hope for a peaceful homecoming and fear of returning to uncertainty. As the region works toward lasting peace, the refugees’ ultimate decision will depend on one crucial factor: whether Congo can truly guarantee their safety.
