President Paul Kagame on Monday praised men and women who devoted themselves, some at the cost of their lives, to safeguarding Rwanda’s security and protecting the lives of its citizens.
He made the remarks on the evening of December 29, 2025, during an end-of-year reception hosted together with First Lady Jeannette Kagame.
The event brought together more than 2,000 guests, including government officials, security personnel, private sector representatives, youth, artists, and professionals from various sectors.
President Kagame described 2025 as a successful year in which Rwanda recorded notable achievements, saying these milestones were worth celebrating.
“When you celebrate such achievements, you begin with people, because people are the ones who make things happen,” he said.
“I thank you as individuals who served your country. We have achieved a lot, and we expect to achieve even more in the new year, 2026.” He added.
The Head of State also commended citizens for their role in maintaining security across the country, while stressing that these efforts would not have been possible without the Rwanda Defence Force and other security institutions.
“I commend citizens across the country for their significant contribution to security,” Kagame said. “That naturally brings me to those who follow young men and women, your peers, your relatives, your brothers and sisters who work day and night, and some who sacrifice their lives so that others may live in safety.”
President Kagame emphasized that Rwanda’s development and achievements would not be possible in the absence of security.
“Previously, I told you to rest when it is time to rest,” he said. “I was not speaking about resting alone, but about resting at the right time. The other time is for working.”
Addressing the sacrifice made by soldiers and police officers who have served the country, including those who lost their lives in the line of duty, President Kagame said their families remain supported.
“There are families, children and relatives who will no longer celebrate with their loved ones because they gave their lives so that others could live in safety,” he said. “Those families are not alone. We are with them every day, and we will continue to stand with them in the future.”
In a message to the Rwanda Defence Force and security personnel in general, President Kagame said they represent the kind of institutions he has always envisioned.
He praised their commitment to serving the nation, protecting its sovereignty, and acting as role models in international peacekeeping missions.
