On Friday, the Executive Committee of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) and Rwandan government officials, announced steps aimed at facilitating the voluntary repatriation of the remaining Rwandan refugees.

The UNHCR will recommend to countries hosting the refugees, to invoke the cessation clause by 31 December.

The clause, as contained in the Geneva Convention of 1951, will be implemented after UNHCR acknowledged that the reasons that led to Rwandans fleeing the country have been addressed.

The government has successfully worked to create equal opportunities for all, ensured the safety of the Rwandan people and guaranteed that their rights are respected.

While more than 3.4 million refugees have voluntary returned home within the last 17 years, there are a few who are reluctant as a result of falsehoods peddled by the country’s detractors.

Those who have returned testify to how their lives have improved and are now contributing to the development of the country.

UNHCR in close partnership with the government have set up programmes to facilitate their repatriation and integrate in their communities smoothly.

Countries hosting the refugees should invoke ccessation by December 31, so that the Rwandan refugees can return home and live a dignified life.

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