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Peaceful coexistence: Dr. Awazi highlights Congolese diaspora’s safe haven in Rwanda

By IGIHE
On 15 January 2024 at 09:00

Dr. Awazi Bohwa Raymond, the legal representative of the Congolese diaspora in Rwanda, reassured the community’s safety amid heightened tensions with their home country. Speaking during a general assembly of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) diaspora members in Rwanda on Saturday, January 13, the event marked the conclusion of the current committee’s mandate and preparations for the election of new leaders.

In light of strained relations between Rwanda and the DRC, primarily fueled by insecurity in the eastern part of the DRC, where armed groups, including the M23, clash with the Congolese army, accusations of Rwandan support for the M23 persist. However, the country refutes these allegations and urges the neighbor to solve internal problems without seeking excuses for failure through blame games.

Dr. Awazi, in an interview with IGIHE, underscored the prevailing sense of security felt by the Congolese diaspora in Rwanda.

"I am a free man. If I did not feel at peace, if I did not have the freedom to work, or if I did not feel safe here, [speaking here as a representative of the Congolese community], the over 100,000 Congolese living in Rwanda would not be here," he explained.

The doctor further stated, "I am a doctor. I would have left here and returned home if it were not for the fact that Rwanda has offered us a favorable business environment, provided us with security, and treats us on an equal footing with its citizens. That’s why we continue to stay here."

Dr. Awazi expressed the desire for Congolese and Rwandan leaders to engage in negotiations for peace, urging a shift away from the current war rhetoric. Acknowledging political interests, he emphasized the need for dialogue between the two neighboring countries.

Referring to President Tshisekedi’s recent remarks about a potential attack on Rwanda, Dr. Awazi highlighted the potential impact on both Rwandans and Congolese residing in Rwanda. He observed an improvement in diplomatic relations, indicating positive signs for dialogue between the two nations.

"I am optimistic that positive developments are underway as evidenced by the effective functioning of the diplomatic mission of Congo in Rwanda. We observed a temporary withdrawal of some diplomats at one point, but today we witness their return, along with the arrival of others. This indicates a significant shift towards fostering dialogue between the two nations."

Concluding his statements, Dr. Awazi called on the region’s residents to unite for peace, addressing Burundians, Rwandans, Ugandans, and Congolese as brothers. Emphasizing the role of the diaspora in promoting peace, cohesion, and reconciliation, he stated, "We are an essential tool in the fight against ethnic and tribal divisions, and we strive to teach peace and cooperation."

The DRC diaspora in Rwanda, numbering over 100,000, actively engages in education, health, and social well-being. Bokanga Kyassa Peter, the executive secretary of the diaspora, commended the outgoing committee’s accomplishments, particularly in education, highlighting teacher and student training, educational support for underprivileged children, and the renovation of damaged schools.

In the social domain, initiatives such as subscribing needy individuals for community-based health insurance and distributing food to families during the Covid-19 pandemic showcase the diaspora’s commitment to social welfare.

Dr. Awazi Bohwa Raymond, the legal representative of the Congolese diaspora in Rwanda, reassured the community’s safety amid heightened tensions with their home country.
The security of Congolese diaspora in Rwanda is guaranteed despite their country's provocations and threats for war.
Bokanga Kyassa Peter, the executive secretary of the diaspora, commended the outgoing committee’s accomplishments.
The meeting was held on Saturday.

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