Kagame urges Police Officers to uphold professionalism and humility

President Paul Kagame, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Rwanda Defence Force, has praised officers of the Rwanda National Police for their dedication and commitment over the past 25 years, saying their service has enabled Rwandans to live and work in safety and dignity.

The President made the remarks on Wednesday during a ceremony where 436 officers were awarded the rank of Assistant Inspector of Police (AIP). The event also marked the 25th anniversary of Rwanda National Police and its partnership-based approach to ensuring security.

“I thank all police officers, both current and former, for the dedication and commitment that have enabled Rwandans to live and carry out their activities in safety, dignity, and respect.” President Kagame said.

Kagame commended Rwanda National Police for maintaining professionalism and strong values both within Rwanda and during international missions. He noted that the achievements recorded over the past 25 years were made possible through collaboration with different security institutions and most importantly, the active participation of Rwandan citizens.

“The achievements made by the Police have come through cooperation with different partners, including other security institutions, but most importantly through the contribution of Rwandans themselves,” he said.

The Head of State urged police officers to continue serving with professionalism, humility and integrity, describing the anniversary as an opportunity for reflection and renewed commitment to the institution’s core values.

“This anniversary is an opportunity to reflect and reaffirm the values and conduct that define this institution. Continue to be professional and remain humble in the service you provide to our country and its citizens. What I have said is very important” Kagame stated.

President Kagame added that continued professionalism within the police force would further strengthen the trust that citizens have in the institution.

“I once again congratulate Rwanda National Police on this anniversary and wish the newly graduating officers success in their duties. Although you may have a short break, I believe your work starts today. I wish all of you, success in fulfilling your responsibilities now and in the future,” he said.

The President also praised the culture of unity and cooperation among Rwandans, saying it has played a crucial role in strengthening the country’s security institutions.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) CG Felix Namuhoranye said that over the last 25 years, Rwanda National Police has built its security operations around community policing, placing citizens at the center of maintaining security.

“For the past 25 years, we have worked closely with citizens, as well as with different partners, institutions in Rwanda, and police forces from the region and beyond. We made it our mission to build our security operations on a strong foundation called the citizen,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Commandant of the Police Training School in Gishari, CP Rafiki Mujiji, said the graduating officers had received comprehensive training designed to strengthen their skills, discipline, and professionalism as junior police officers.

The officers began their training on July 15, 2025. Among the 436 graduates, 124 completed undergraduate studies in different disciplines at the Rwanda National Police College in Musanze.

“During their time here, the students received training aimed at strengthening their capacity, discipline, and professional conduct as junior police officers,” CP Mujiji said.

He later requested President Kagame to officially confer the rank of Assistant Inspector of Police on the graduates, expressing confidence in their ability to perform their duties effectively after successfully completing their training and evaluations.

“Following the assessments they undertook and the commitment and effort they demonstrated throughout their training, we are confident they will perform their duties well. We therefore request His Excellency the President of the Republic to grant them the rank of Assistant Inspector of Police,” he said.

The ceremony highlighted Rwanda National Police’s 25-year journey in strengthening security through professionalism, cooperation with citizens and partnership with local and international stakeholders.

President Paul Kagame speaking during the 25th anniversary celebration of Rwanda National Police and the graduation ceremony of new police officers.