GISHARI, Rwanda — President Paul Kagame on Wednesday commended the dedication and professionalism of the Rwanda National Police as he commissioned 436 officers to the rank of Assistant Inspector of Police (AIP) during celebrations marking the force’s 25th anniversary.
The commissioning ceremony took place at the Police Training School in Gishari, located in Rwamagana District, drawing senior government officials, security leaders, and international delegations from across Africa and beyond.
Addressing the graduating officers and guests, President Kagame praised the police force for its role in maintaining national security and promoting Rwanda’s reputation internationally through peacekeeping operations.
“Over the past 25 years, your commitment and dedication have enabled Rwandans to enjoy security and stability,” Kagame said.
“Even beyond our borders, these values continue to define your contribution in international peacekeeping missions.”
The graduating class, the 14th intake of junior officers, included 327 men and 109 women who began their training in July 2025.
Among them were nine officers from Seychelles, reflecting the growing regional cooperation between Rwanda and other African nations in professional policing and security training.
The cohort also featured 124 graduates from the National Police College in Musanze who recently completed undergraduate studies in various fields.
Another 172 trainees were promoted from lower police ranks, while 86 recruits joined directly from civilian backgrounds.
Additionally, 50 officers were drawn from specialized institutions, including the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS) and the Rwanda Investigation Bureau.
Four officers who completed advanced training programs abroad in Egypt and Singapore also graduated with the group.
Throughout the training program, officers received intensive instruction in modern policing techniques, leadership, ethics, tactical operations, and community security management.
Officials emphasized that integrity, accountability, and professionalism remain central pillars of Rwanda’s policing model.
The event attracted police chiefs and senior security officials from several countries, including Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic, Eswatini, Gambia, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Mozambique, Qatar, Seychelles, Sudan, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.
Over the years, Rwanda has gained international recognition for its contribution to United Nations peacekeeping operations, particularly through the deployment of disciplined police contingents and female peacekeeping units in conflict-affected countries such as South Sudan and the Central African Republic.
Domestically, the Rwanda National Police has also earned praise for its strict anti-corruption standards and adoption of digital systems aimed at improving transparency, traffic management, and public accountability.
As the newly commissioned Assistant Inspectors prepare to begin their duties, authorities expressed confidence that the officers are equipped to respond to emerging security challenges while upholding the force’s values of discipline and public service.
The silver jubilee celebrations highlighted not only the achievements of the Rwanda National Police over the past quarter-century, but also its growing influence as a model for professional policing and peacekeeping excellence across the region.
