Today, Rwanda marked a historic occasion with the pass‑out ceremony of officer cadets at the Police Training School in Gishari, Rwamagana District.
The event coincided with the 25th anniversary of the Rwanda National Police. It was attended by President Paul Kagame, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), senior government officials, and international guests, underscoring the importance of the institution in Rwanda’s national life.
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Promotion of 436 Officer Cadets
CadetsAfter the successful completion of the cadet course, which commenced on 15 July 2025, President Kagame promoted 436 Officer Cadets (OCs) to the rank of Assistant Inspector of Police (AIP).
Among them were 327 men and 109 women. They are classified into five categories. The first category consisted of 124 graduates from the Rwanda National Police College in Musanze. The second category included 172 former non‑commissioned officers, among them 163 Rwandans and nine from Seychelles.
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The third category comprised 86 officer cadets recruited directly from civilians. The fourth category was made up of 50 students, 30 from the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS) and 20 from the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB). Finally, the fifth category included four officers who had completed their university studies in Egypt and Singapore.
Today, Rwanda marked a historic occasion with the pass‑out ceremony of officer cadets at the Police Training School in Gishari, Rwamagana District. The event coincided with the 25th anniversary of the Rwanda National Police. It was attended by President Paul Kagame, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), senior government officials, and international guests, underscoring the importance of the institution in Rwanda’s national life.
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President Kagame’s Remarks
In his remarks, President Kagame outlined the role of the Rwanda National Police over the past 25 years of service and emphasised the importance of community policing.
He stated: “To the entire police force: This anniversary is a moment to reflect and renew your commitment to the standards and values that define this institution. This is what will preserve and deepen the trust that Rwandans have in you and their collaboration.”
He added, “I commend all police officers, past and present, whose courage and dedication have enabled Rwandans to live and work in safety and dignity. Beyond our borders, these qualities continue to distinguish you in international peace support operations.”
“The achievements made so far, are a result of strong cooperation with partners, fellow security organs, and above all, the unwavering support of Rwandans. This spirit of collaboration is a strength that must be continually nurtured, and bolstered.” President Kagame argued.
President Kagame praised the force for its professionalism and resilience, noting that the police have become a pillar of Rwanda’s transformation. He urged the new cadets to carry forward the values of service and integrity, reminding them that their duty is not only to enforce the law but also to protect the dignity of every citizen.
Inspector General’s Reflections
The Inspector General of Police, Commissioner General Felix Namuhoranye, reflected on the institutional development from its establishment to the present.
He emphasised a newly published book of the Rwanda National Police entitled “The Police and the Community in Rwanda.”
The book addresses Rwanda’s vision to involve citizens in their own security. It highlights how community policing builds trust between the Rwandan security organs and the citizenry, and acknowledges the evolution of the Rwanda National Police in adapting global methods of community policing to Rwanda’s culture.
He stressed that the Rwanda Police will continue to modernise and adapt to current global trends to combat evolving crimes, including those brought about by technology.
25 Years of Service and Achievements
Over the past 25 years, the Rwanda National Police (RNP) has transformed into one of the most effective and respected police forces in the world. Established in 2000, it has become a cornerstone of Rwanda’s remarkable journey toward peace, security, and justice. Celebrated as a community-based institution, RNP is widely credited with restoring law and order, strengthening justice systems, and reducing crime rates to the point where Rwanda is now considered one of the safest countries globally.
The origins of this transformation trace back to the early 2000s. Following the resignation of President Bizimungu, Paul Kagame assumed office as interim President. Having previously served as Minister of Defence, Kagame understood that rebuilding a nation devastated by war and the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi required urgent restoration of security and stability.
In response, he ordered the creation of a unified police force by merging three separate institutions: the Gendarmerie Nationale under the Ministry of Defence, the Police Communale under the Ministry of Local Government, and the Police Judiciaire under the Ministry of Justice. This merger eliminated duplication, reduced bureaucracy, and laid the foundation for a professional force dedicated to protecting citizens.
From its modest beginnings with 3,000 personnel, RNP has grown to over 18,000 officers today, including specialists in law, health, engineering, security, and technology, among others. Its responsibilities span a wide range of areas: maintaining public safety, managing traffic and road safety, countering terrorism, securing infrastructure, and responding to fires and disasters.
At the heart of its philosophy lies community policing, which emphasizes partnership with local leaders, schools, businesses, and residents to prevent crime, identify threats early, and resolve concerns through dialogue rather than enforcement alone.
Beyond Rwanda’s borders, the RNP has become a key player in international peacekeeping. Since 2005, it has contributed to missions in Haiti, Sudan, Mali, and currently serves in the Central African Republic, South Sudan, and Mozambique. Rwanda is now recognized as one of the leading contributors to UN peacekeeping operations. RNP deploys two categories of officers: Formed Police Units (FPUs), trained for high-risk environments, and Individual Police Officers (IPOs), who serve as advisors and capacity-building experts.
At home, crime rates have fallen, road safety has improved, and disaster response capacity has been strengthened. The National Police College and advanced training centres have positioned Rwanda as a regional hub for police education, hosting officers from across Africa.
As the Rwanda National Police marks its 25th anniversary, it stands as a testament to resilience, reform, and innovation in policing. Congratulations to the men and women who have dedicated their service to keeping Rwanda safe, secure, and peaceful.
Bond Between Police and Citizens
The celebrations were not only about institutional achievements but also about community. Citizens expressed gratitude for the police’s role in safeguarding lives and property, particularly during moments of crisis. The anniversary underscored the bond between the police and the people, a relationship built on trust and shared responsibility.
Today’s ceremonies at Gishari were more than formal events; they were a reflection of Rwanda’s progress over the past 25 years and a promise of continued dedication to security and service.
