From the forests to freedom: Colonel Uwimana Alphonse’s Journey home
Colonel Uwimana Alphonse, who managed to escape the armed rebel group CNRD/FLN based in the forests of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), expressed his relief and gratitude after a grueling journey of over 600 kilometers to Rwanda.
He was warmly welcomed, underwent reorientation training, and is now committed to contributing to the country’s development alongside fellow Rwandans.
Life in the Forest Was Pure Struggle
Reflecting on his five-day trek from Kirembwe, Fizi zone, in southern DRC, Col Uwimana described his experience of living in the forest as unbearable, with constant battles between different militias and government forces.
“There are countless factions, some fighting each other and others against the government. Gunfire is relentless, and you live each day unsure if you’ll survive to see the next. Food is scarce, and the living conditions are a nightmare,” he recounted.
To reach the Rwandan border at Rusizi, he disguised himself as a civilian to avoid detection by the rebels, who are known to kill or brutally punish deserters. “I had to bribe my way through at least 19 military checkpoints in Congo, using a refugee ID I carried and paying cash to proceed. At every checkpoint, I feared for my life.”
Disillusioned with Rebel Life
The CNRD/FLN, a splinter group of the FDLR, has been notorious for destabilizing Rwanda’s southern and western regions. However, its endless infighting and futile battles pushed Col Uwimana to make the life-changing decision to return home.
He revealed that misinformation about Rwanda kept him and others stuck in the forests. “We were told that anyone who returned would be killed. But when I arrived, I was welcomed warmly and have since experienced peace and safety. Life in Rwanda is secure, people thrive, and opportunities abound.”
Rehabilitation and Reintegration
Col Uwimana is one of 55 individuals who recently completed a reintegration program as part of the 71st cohort at the Mutobo Demobilization and Reintegration Center. Among them were 46 ex-combatants, seven civilians, and two children. The training included civic education, technical skills, and vocational training to help participants rebuild their lives.
Nyirahabineza Valerie, Chairperson of the Rwanda Demobilization and Reintegration Commission, emphasized the program’s success. “These lessons are designed to transform their mindset and prepare them to reintegrate as productive citizens with a renewed sense of purpose.”
Minister of Local Government, Jean Claude Musabyimana, urged the group to foster unity and protect Rwanda’s progress. “Do not undermine the tremendous strides Rwanda has made in promoting unity and resilience. You must be the guardians of this progress.”
Now 52 years old, Col Uwimana spent 29 years in the forests. Originally from Huye District in Southern Rwanda, he is married with two children, who returned to Rwanda five years before him. He now joins over 73,000 former combatants who have been reintegrated into Rwandan society, 14,000 of whom passed through the Mutobo center.
Looking ahead, Col Uwimana is determined to build a brighter future with his family and contribute to Rwanda’s development.
