He highlighted this in an exclusive interview with IGIHE on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Mukuralinda emphasized that while fighting continues between the M23 group and the DR Congo army, along with allied groups including Burundian forces, Wazalendo, FDLR terrorist group, SAMDRC, and mercenaries, and some of the fighting is near Rwanda's border, citizens have no cause for concern.
'What I can assure you is that Rwanda's security, particularly in Rubavu and other nearby areas, is secure with no problems arising,' he stated.
'No one has crossed from Congo to destabilize Rwanda, but citizens have reported hearing gunfire nearby. Indeed, it's no surprise that fighting is near Rwanda's border, and it's also not surprising that a stray bullet might land in Rwanda.'
Some residents of Rubavu District expressed concerns due to hearing gunfire close to them, and in some cases, bullets have landed on Rwandan soil after being fired from the DRC.
Alain Mukuralinda explained that while fighting is occurring near Rwanda's border, it is possible for a bullet to land on Rwandan soil, but this should be investigated by the relevant authorities to understand the cause.
He said, 'This has happened before, as we know. The important thing is that when it happens, Rwanda's army also monitors the situation. They track it to determine if a bullet fell, whether anyone was injured, if there was damage, and if the bullet's fall was accidental, a mistake, or if it was intentional.'
He confirmed that once the investigation is completed, the Rwandan Government informs citizens of the findings and reiterated that there is no cause for alarm regarding the country's security.
Mukuralinda also mentioned that any citizen with concerns can approach local civil and military authorities, who can provide guidance on how to respond.
Reliable reports indicate that one bullet pierced a house in Cyanzarwe Sector, Busigari Cell, Bugu Village, entering from outside. In Rubavu District's Rutagara area, a bullet hit and killed a resident's goat.
Regarding those who might believe the gunfire near Rubavu is a result of provocations by the DRC, Mukuralinda stated that such incidents would be thoroughly investigated and addressed by the relevant commission.
He added, 'If it happens, Rwanda's army will investigate and take the necessary steps. If residents remember anything about the incident, we have a joint commission where both countries collaborate. So, if a bullet falls in Rwanda or if an aircraft crosses the border, military personnel infiltrates, all of these situations are handled by a commission that makes decisions to clarify what occurred.'
He said that relocation could be considered if it is found that civilians in areas affected by the conflict in the DRC.
Since tensions arose between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, there have been repeated incidents of provocations from the Congolese side, including violations of Rwandan airspace by the DRC's military aircraft, with one such incident resulting in the aircraft being shot in January 2023.
Mukuralinda emphasized that Rwanda's army is vigilant and prepared to defend the country against any potential attack.
IGIHE
