He made these remarks on February 3, 2025, during an interview with CNN journalist Larry Madowo.
Kagame firmly rejected claims that Rwanda is responsible for the war, stating that those fighting in eastern DRC, particularly the M23 rebels, are not Rwandans but Congolese seeking their rights.
"This war you see was not started by Rwanda; it was started by the DRC. These people fighting for their rights did not come from here [Rwanda],' he said.
The M23, a group composed primarily of Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese, took up arms after years of persecution and failed negotiations with the Kinshasa government. Rather than addressing the grievances of its own citizens, Kagame argued, the Congolese government has opted to blame Rwanda for the crisis.
Tensions between Rwanda and the DRC have been exacerbated by Kinshasa's continued support for the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a terrorist group responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The Head of State pointed out that the FDLR operates freely in the DRC with the support of its government, posing a security threat to Rwanda.
With President Félix Tshisekedi repeatedly making statements about attacking Rwanda, Kagame made it clear that his country will do whatever is necessary to protect itself. 'No one, not even the United Nations or the international community will ensure our security if we do not do it ourselves,' he stated.
When asked whether the conflict in eastern DRC could spill over into the broader region, Kagame responded that he does not believe anyone, including Tshisekedi, is genuinely interested in war.
However, he noted that external influences have led the Congolese leader in that direction. 'I don't think anyone is keen on war. I don't even think Tshisekedi himself is truly interested in war, but he has been led in that direction by those who promised to fight his battles for him.'
Kagame also addressed accusations that Rwanda exploits DRC's mineral wealth, an allegation frequently made by Congolese authorities and echoed in some international reports. He dismissed the claims and stated that South Africa and European countries are the primary beneficiaries of DRC's vast mineral resources.
'I invite you to come and see where we mine coltan,' Kagame said when asked if Rwanda extracts minerals from the DRC. He clarified that Rwanda has its own mines and does not depend on the DRC's resources.
'I don't know anything about that because it's not an issue. The people benefiting the most from DRC's minerals are South Africa and those Europeans.'
Available statistics indicate that Rwanda has its own mineral wealth, with underground reserves estimated at 112 million tons, valued at approximately $154 billion. A 2017 study identified 52 mineral-rich zones in Rwanda, with 37 already licensed for extraction. The country also processes its minerals domestically, with refining plants for tin and coltan.
Official data from the Rwanda Mining, Petroleum, and Gas Board (RMB) shows that Rwanda's mineral exports generated over $1.1 billion in 2023, up from $772 million in 2022. The figures indicate steady growth in the sector, contradicting claims that Rwanda depends on illegal mineral trade from the DRC.
In October 2023, Rwanda exported 1,015 kilograms of gold, earning $62.1 million, while in November and December, exports reached 823 and 1,320 kilograms, generating $52.9 million and $87.5 million, respectively.
The country also recorded significant exports of tin, coltan, and wolfram, reinforcing its position as a legitimate mining and refining hub in the region.
Kagame concluded that despite ongoing accusations, Rwanda remains focused on its national priorities, including security and economic growth.
'Many stories will be told. I cannot stop people from talking [...]. What can I do about it? What matters is that we must focus on our responsibilities and ensure that we survive any threats to our country,' he said.
Sam K Nkurunziza
