The report, which concluded its investigation on April 20, alleged the presence of Rwandan troops in areas controlled by the AFC/M23 coalition and accused Rwanda of illegally extracting 3T minerals (Tungsten, Tantalum, and Tin) from the region.
In a statement shared on July 2, Rwanda's government spokesperson, Yolande Makolo, dismissed these allegations as false while reaffirming Rwanda's commitment to a newly signed US-brokered Peace Agreement aimed at stabilizing the region.
The UN report claimed that Rwandan troops were operating in AFC/M23-controlled areas, with thousands more positioned at the DRC border, preparing to enter.
Rwanda has consistently denied any military presence in eastern DRC.
Addressing the report's findings, Makolo criticized its portrayal of Rwanda's security measures, stating, 'The report confirms DRC state support for the FDLR genocidal militia and the Congolese army's reliance on the FDLR as a frontline fighting force, but then deliberately misrepresents Rwanda's longstanding security concerns related to the persistent threat of the FDLR and its affiliated groups, which necessitates the defence posture in our border areas.'
Makolo also highlighted Rwanda's commitment to the US-brokered Peace Agreement signed last Friday, which she described as a pivotal step toward resolving regional tensions.
'Following the signing of the US-brokered Peace Agreement last Friday, Rwanda is fully committed to its implementation, including the neutralization of the FDLR, which will enable the lifting of Rwanda's defensive measures, the safe return of refugees to their home areas, and much-needed stability in our region,' she stated.
The agreement is expected to address the FDLR threat, paving the way for improved security and the return of displaced populations.
On the allegations of illegal 3T mineral extraction, Makolo categorically rejected the claims, underscoring Rwanda's regulated mining sector.
'Rwanda has its own 3T critical mineral reserves and unlike eastern DRC whose mining sector is mostly artisanal and characterized by predatory exploitation by armed groups and corrupt DRC officials, Rwanda operates a regulated and formalized mining sector, with investment in mineral processing and other infrastructure that allows for commercial refining of minerals and appropriate certification,' she said.
Makolo also pointed to the economic potential of the Peace Agreement, noting that it 'will ultimately present opportunities for economic cooperation, with US private investment in the region to further formalize the mining sectors and allow for improved standards and revenue/tax collection by the respective governments.'
IGIHE
