Twenty-four officers from the Rwanda National Police Marine Unit and four soldiers from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) have completed the first phase of training aimed at strengthening their skills in water security management and rescue operations for people in distress on water.
The three-month training concluded on September 30, 2026, and was conducted on Lake Kivu in Rubavu District. According to the Rwanda National Police, the training was delivered by instructors from the force to strengthen the capacity of security organs to respond to emergencies that may occur on water and further improve security on lakes and at ports.
The closing ceremony was presided over by the Commanding Officer of the Police Marine Unit, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Charles Butera, accompanied by the RDF representative in the unit, Lt Col Gasana Mbaga, along with other leaders and guests. ACP Charles Butera commended the graduates for their good conduct, discipline and dedication throughout the three months of training.
He stressed that capacity building for security personnel is one of the top priorities of the Rwanda National Police, enabling officers to effectively fulfil their duties.
He said: “In its mission to ensure the safety and security of people and their property, Rwanda National Police continues to enhance the knowledge and capacity of its officers in various fields, to enable them to effectively carry out their duties on land, on water and in the air.” ACP Butera added that the knowledge acquired during the training would help the police officers and soldiers improve their professionalism.
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Officers Trained in Water Rescue and Safety
During the training, participants were taught various courses related to water safety, designed to help them prevent accidents and rescue people in distress on water.
The courses included swimming, first aid, survival and rescue techniques for drowning victims, boat handling, operation and navigation, as well as engine mechanics.
They were also trained in police conduct and values, fire prevention and firefighting, use of force, and laws governing water-related operations.
IP Desire Mugwaneza, who spoke on behalf of the graduates, said they had gained crucial knowledge that would help them perform their duties.
He said: “My colleagues and I have acquired diverse practical skills during this training, including swimming, the ability to quickly rescue victims of water accidents and provide them with first aid, boat handling, and various other skills related to water security.”
He thanked the Rwanda National Police and the instructors who delivered the training, noting that the acquired knowledge would help them better execute their responsibilities.
The Rwanda National Police has various responsibilities for maintaining the safety and security of people and their property on land, on water and in the air.
The force continues to prioritise training as a means of strengthening the capacity of its officers and enabling them to fulfil their duties professionally.
