At the heart of Rwanda Convention 2025, a vibrant celebration of culture and unity marking the 31st anniversary of Rwanda’s Liberation, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Olivier Nduhungirehe issued a powerful appeal to Rwandans living abroad: become active defenders of truth in the face of mounting international misinformation surrounding the crisis in eastern DR Congo.
You are citizens and ambassadors of Rwanda,” Nduhungirehe told attendees gathered in Dallas. “We cannot get everywhere as a government. But you can.”
Diaspora as a Diplomatic Force
The minister’s remarks come amid escalating tensions and media scrutiny following the fall of key Congolese cities like Goma and Bukavu earlier this year. Rwanda has faced sanctions and criticism—often fueled by what officials describe as misleading narratives that oversimplify the conflict as a mineral grab.
Nduhungirehe emphasized that the crisis is far more complex, pointing to a recent UN Group of Experts report that confirms the Congolese army’s collaboration with the FDLR, a militia founded by perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Rwanda views this alliance as a direct threat to its national security.
“Our position is the one that will bring sustainable peace in our region,” he said, urging diaspora members to seek credible sources and engage with embassies and Rwandan Community Abroad (RCA) chapters to better understand the situation.
Countering the Narrative
Government spokesperson Yolande Makolo also criticized the UN report for misrepresenting Rwanda’s defensive posture and making false allegations of mineral smuggling. Sheba Rugege, Executive Board Member of the US Rwanda Community Abroad, echoed the call for vigilance.
“Don’t rely on random voices online,” Rugege said. “Watch actual videos from our ministers. We must speak truth to those who attack Rwanda simply because they’re in awe of its progress.”
A Moment of Reflection and Resolve
The convention, themed “Karame Rwanda”, served not only as a cultural showcase but also as a strategic platform for mobilizing diaspora influence. With Rwanda’s global reputation at stake, officials are counting on its citizens abroad to champion facts over fiction and help shape international understanding.
As the region grapples with instability, Rwanda’s message is clear: peace begins with truth—and truth begins with you
