On Monday, April 15, at the Rwanda Military Academy in Gako, Bugesera, President Paul Kagame, who also serves as Rwanda’s Commander-in-Chief, led a ceremony to welcome over 600 new officer cadets into the Rwandan Defence Force.

Addressing the newly commissioned officers, now holding the rank of Second Lieutenant, President Kagame stressed the gravity of their duty and the need for unwavering commitment.

He reminded them of the tragic 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, where over a million lives were Killed, emphasizing the importance of standing firm against those who threaten peace.

President Kagame also emphasized the values of discipline and character within the Rwanda Defence Force.

He urged the officers to embody these principles, as their behavior not only reflects on themselves but also on the nation as a whole.

The newly commissioned officers received their ranks based on three categories, which reflect their diverse training backgrounds. Among them, 522 officers completed a year-long training program, 102 underwent specialized training, and 33 finished their military education abroad. Notably, 51 of these officers are women, highlighting Rwanda’s commitment to gender equality and inclusivity within its armed forces.

Photos: Urugwiro Village