Rwanda’s 1,652 newly trained police officers have been urged to strengthen crime prevention and prepare to tackle emerging security threats, including cybercrime, online fraud and the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI).
The call was made by Interior Minister Dr Vincent Biruta on October 28, 2026, during the graduation of the 22nd cohort of basic police training at the Police Training School in Gishari, Rwamagana District.
Biruta said evolving security challenges require officers to go beyond enforcing the law by developing the ability to identify threats early, use technology responsibly, communicate effectively with communities and make decisions based on evidence and the public interest.
“We are living in a time when the world is facing rapid and increasingly complex changes in the security sector,” he said.
He identified technology-enabled crimes, online fraud, cross-border offences, terrorism, human trafficking and corruption among the threats requiring stronger policing capacity. Other persistent challenges include theft, assault, drug use, substandard alcoholic beverages and road accidents.
Biruta emphasised the importance of preventing crimes before they occur rather than relying mainly on investigations after offences have been committed.
The graduates comprise 1,315 men and 337 women. Of these, 60 will join the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS), while 40 will serve in the Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS).
He urged the new officers to demonstrate discipline, professionalism, integrity and dedication while working alongside experienced colleagues to protect people and their property.
Police Training School head Commissioner of Police Rafiki Mujiji said the graduates had demonstrated the knowledge, commitment and discipline required for their duties.
Their training covered firearms use, physical fitness, public order, police operations, relevant laws and community policing. Mujiji said they would continue receiving professional training throughout their careers.
