A pivotal handover ceremony was held at the Rwanda Defence Force headquarters on January 26, 2026, as Brigadier General Godfrey Gasana formally transferred his duties to Colonel Dan Gatsinzi as deputy commander of the Rwanda Air Force.
The ceremony followed a decision by President Paul Kagame, who is also the commander-in-chief of the Rwanda Defence Force, appointing Brig Gen Gasana on January 25, 2026, as presidential pilot and adviser to the minister of defence and the chief of defence staff on air force matters.
Colonel Dan Gatsinzi now serves as deputy commander in charge of operations, taking over responsibilities previously held by Brig Gen Gasana.
Brig Gen Gasana is a career military pilot who began his aviation career in 2000 after completing military flight training.
In 2023, while holding the rank of colonel, he was promoted to brigadier general and appointed deputy commander of the Air Force. He has received advanced training in military aviation and presidential flight operations in Ethiopia, South Africa, and the United States.
Colonel Gatsinzi brings strong academic and professional credentials to his new role. In 2025, he was recognised as the best-performing graduate among officers completing their studies at the Nyakinama Military Academy.
The handover is a significant milestone in the Rwanda Air Force, reflecting a carefully managed leadership transition aimed at sustaining operational readiness and strengthening strategic command.
