In a powerful tribute to the men and women in uniform, President Paul Kagame today lauded the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and other security organs for their “unwavering commitment” and role as the bedrock of the nation’s stability.
Speaking on December 19, 2025, during the opening of the 17th RPF-Inkotanyi General Assembly, the President, who also serves as the RPF Chairman, expressed profound gratitude for the selflessness of the country’s security apparatus. He noted that the performance of these organs consistently exceeds even his own high expectations.
Addressing the RPF cadres and members, President Kagame highlighted that the peace Rwanda enjoys today is not a matter of chance, but the result of a disciplined force that evolved from the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA). Under the leadership of then-General Kagame, this wing brought a stop to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi before evolving into the RDF we know today.
Today, the legacy of RDF has transformed into a global standard. Beyond Rwanda’s borders, the RDF and Rwanda National Police (RNP) are celebrated for their efficiency in UN peacekeeping missions and bilateral security interventions across Africa.
“I also thank security organs in General; RDF, Rwanda National Police, and other security personnel, for their unwavering commitment to serving our nation. I don’t have much to ask of them, as their responsibilities are fulfilled to the fullest,” the President stated.
“These forces of ours are the forces I have always wished to have.” He added with visible pride
The President’s remarks come at a time of heightened regional significance. Earlier this year, in January 2025, Rwanda’s defensive measures were put to the test following shelling from the DRC.
True to his word, the President ensured the protection of Rwanda’s sovereignty, echoing the defiant stance he took during the 2024 Umushyikirano.
At that time, President Kagame assured citizens they could sleep peacefully, dismissing external threats with a clear warning to those who would challenge Rwanda’s borders:
“When it comes to defending this country that suffered for so long, and nobody came to help, I don’t need permission from anybody to do what we have to do to protect ourselves,” President Kagame said at Umushyikirano 2024.
“I will say it in broad daylight. I have said it to those who matter in this problem, and that’s what is going to happen. There will be nothing crossing these borders of this small country of ours.” He added.
By thanking the forces so publicly, the President affirmed that the military and police are perfectly aligned with his singular priority; safeguarding the peace and sovereignty of Rwanda.
