Kigali - 6 th feb 2026 , President Paul Kagame used the opening of the 20th National Umushyikirano dialogue to strongly reject accusations that Rwanda is involved in conflict in eastern DR Congo for mineral exploitation, instead pointing to security threats from genocidal militias operating in the region. President Paul Kagame on Thursday delivered a firm message on Rwanda’s security and regional tensions during Day 1 of the 20th Umushyikirano National Dialogue Council in Kigali, dismissing claims that Rwanda is involved in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) conflict to benefit from miner

Kigali - 6th feb 2026

, President Paul Kagame used the opening of the 20th National Umushyikirano dialogue to strongly reject accusations that Rwanda is involved in conflict in eastern DR Congo for mineral exploitation, instead pointing to security threats from genocidal militias operating in the region. President Paul Kagame on Thursday delivered a firm message on Rwanda’s security and regional tensions during Day 1 of the 20th Umushyikirano National Dialogue Council in Kigali, dismissing claims that Rwanda is involved in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) conflict to benefit from mineral resources. Speaking at the national forum, President Kagame said allegations that Rwanda is in Congo for minerals are illogical, arguing that if the country were exploiting Congo’s natural wealth, it would already be significantly richer. He said such claims divert attention from what he described as the real source of instability in eastern Congo, armed groups linked to the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. “Congo must own up. They have responsibilities and must not transfer them to Rwanda. We are not responsible for Congo,” President Kagame said.

President Paul Kagame

The president stressed that Rwanda should not be blamed for internal problems in Congo, insisting that every country must address its own challenges. He also warned that the continued presence and support of groups such as the FDLR and Interahamwe militias in Congo remains a major threat to Rwanda’s security. President Kagame also criticized sections of the international community, saying global pressure often focuses on Rwanda while overlooking responsibilities of other actors in the conflict. He argued that this imbalance risks prolonging instability in the region. Beyond regional security, the Head of State used the forum to call for stronger national self-reliance, accountability and protection of Rwanda’s sovereignty, urging citizens and leaders alike to remain united and focused on long-term development. The annual Umushyikirano National Dialogue brings together citizens, leaders, private sector representatives and members of the diaspora to review national progress, address challenges, and shape future priorities under Rwanda’s development strategies.

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