Rwamagana  -Over ten ex-child combatants, were yesterday, reunited with their families at Duha Children Rehabilitation centre in Rwamagana District.

The children were rescued from the rebel groups fighting in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

According to David Munyurangabo, a commissioner in the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission, the children completed a rehabilitation programme before joining their families.

"These children arrive when they have terrible psycho-social problems and could be dangerous to their peers and adults,” he said.

"It is vital that they pass through the stages of rehabilitation, reunification and finally integration into the society.”

Madeleine Byukusenge, an official in charge of Good Governance in the Eastern Province, advised the children and parents, to take it upon themselves to maintain harmony in their communities.

She said that local government authorities will help the children go back to school or acquire entrepreneurial skills.
Sylvester Bariyanga, 17, who was reunited with his mother Anastazia Nyiramabuye, 46, told The New Times that he is ready to change his life.

He said that he has been living a hopeless life in the DRC.
"I am told that my home is Mushubati in Rutsiro. It is a new place to me. Mother and I failed to recognise each other! It will take me time but I will do all to adapt to the change,” he said.

The colourful ceremony was also attended by Maj Gen Paul Rwarakabije, also a commissioner at RDRC and UNICEF officials.

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