Rwandan diaspora urged to counter misinformation on DR Congo conflict
Rwanda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Olivier Nduhungirehe, has urged members of the Rwandan diaspora to actively counter misinformation targeting Rwanda regarding the crisis in DR Congo, particularly in international media and online platforms.
He made the call on Saturday, July 5, during Rwanda Convention 2025, an event that celebrates Rwandan culture, achievements, and unity. The three-day event, taking place in Dallas, Texas, also marks the 31st anniversary of Rwanda’s Liberation.
Speaking to diaspora members, Nduhungirehe emphasised the crucial role they play in shaping global perceptions of Rwanda.
“We always say that members of the diaspora are citizens and ambassadors of Rwanda. We know that as a government and embassies, we cannot get everywhere,” he said. Nduhungirehe noted that since the beginning of 2025, following the fall of cities such as Goma and Bukavu in eastern DR Congo, Rwanda has faced growing pressure in the media and from foreign governments, including sanctions, often based on misleading narratives.
“There was also misinformation, especially from Congo, in media and social media, portraying the conflict as a mineral conflict, without describing the conflict as it truly is.”
A new report by the UN Group of Experts confirms that DR Congo’s army is collaborating with FDLR, a genocidal militia founded by remnants of the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, using it as a frontline force.
However, the report misrepresents Rwanda’s legitimate security concerns about FDLR and its affiliates, which justify Rwanda’s defensive measures along the border. According to government spokesperson Yolande Makolo, the report also makes “false allegations of mineral smuggling.”
Nduhungirehe urged members of the diaspora to remain informed, saying, “It is important for members of the diaspora to first understand this crisis.”
“Also, to talk to our embassies to understand the crisis, and also work with RCAs [Rwandan Community Abroad] to access credible information. Then we can speak or defend the position of the government in our communities, where we live and work.”
He noted that, “Our position is the one that will bring sustainable peace in our region.”
He stressed the need to address Rwanda's security concerns, particularly the threat posed by FDLR and to end the ongoing persecution of Congolese Tutsi and Rwandophone communities, issues for which Rwanda is often unfairly blamed.
Sheba Rugege, the Executive Board Member of the US Rwanda Community Abroad (USRCA), also encouraged diaspora members to take an active role in countering disinformation.
“You shouldn't depend on just different voices online, but go to actual videos from our ministers and other representatives who can speak clearly about the crisis,” she said.
“Just 31 years ago, we were in such a dark place. There are a lot of people attacking Rwanda simply because they are in awe and we have to tell them: yes, this is true. This is fact.”
