Twelve Rwanda National Police officers have completed a three-week training programme aimed at strengthening their skills in handling police dogs used in security operations and crime detection.
The closing ceremony was held on October 23, 2026, at the Rwanda National Police Canine Brigade headquarters in Ndera Sector, Gasabo District.
The training was conducted by Rwanda National Police instructors in collaboration with experts from the Netherlands-based Police Dog Center Holland (PDCH). It focused on familiarising the officers with newly acquired police dogs and preparing them to use the animals effectively in various operations, including searching vehicles, luggage and buildings, as well as detecting drugs and explosives.
Closing the training, Commissioner of Police George Rumanzi, who heads the Police Operations and Public Order department, emphasised that technical skills must be accompanied by discipline and proper care for the dogs.
“Having sufficient knowledge and skills is not enough on its own. You must also demonstrate good conduct and take proper care of these dogs,” he said.
Rumanzi said Rwanda National Police would continue building the capacity of officers working with police dogs through further training and partnerships, including programmes designed to train instructors.
The head of the Canine Brigade, Assistant Commissioner of Police Faustin Kalimba, thanked the police leadership for providing the support and equipment needed to facilitate the training. He also commended the instructors for sharing their knowledge and experience with the participants.
He urged the officers who completed the programme to continue learning and conducting research to remain prepared for evolving threats, terrorism and other crimes that undermine security.
The training was supported by Rwanda Airports Company in partnership with experts from the Police Dog Center Holland.
