Africa-Press – Rwanda. President Paul Kagame on Friday, October 3, called upon the new officer cadets of Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) to take seriously their duty to protect the country and its people.
He made the remarks during the graduation of the 12th intake of Officer Basic Training, where 1,029 cadets were commissioned as 2nd Lieutenants in RDF at a ceremony held at Rwanda Military Academy in Gako, Bugesera District.
The graduating group included 42 officers trained in partner countries, 557 cadets who completed a one-year military training course at the academy, 182 graduates of the four-year Social and Military Sciences degree program, and 248 officers who completed a nine-month course. Of the cadets, 117 are women.
“I thank each one of you for the dedication and determination you have shown throughout the rigorous training you have undergone up to this day. I also thank your trainers for playing a significant role in preparing you to perform well in the responsibilities you have been given,” President Kagame said.
He thanked partner countries for supporting training and education, noting that such collaborations strengthen both the armed forces and international friendship.
The President also thanked families for supporting their loved ones’ decision to join this important and honourable profession.
“To the new officers, the responsibility of protecting Rwanda and Rwandans is one you must fulfill properly. You must fully understand this duty.
“Your duty is to ensure the country has adequate security and is protected from those who do not wish it well. We seek peace,” he noted.
He emphasised that Rwanda, after 31 years, is rebuilding, strengthening security, fostering peace, a responsibility everyone must share.
He also noted that the world is constantly changing with evolving challenges, and new officers must stay on the right path and use these challenges to prepare for success.
“To succeed and reach your goals, you must be proactive, keep pace with the times, and continuously expand your knowledge to address new challenges. No one should think that because we are making progress, we have reached our destination, no, we have not. The path is still long, work remains, determination is needed, and effort is required,” he said.
“Always remember that your responsibility in this profession is not just to preserve what Rwanda has achieved but to contribute to further building and achieving even more.”
A strong country with a solid foundation must have security, Kagame said.
He told the officers that joining RDF enables them to support Rwanda’s development and maintain peace, both nationally and internationally, while continuing cooperation with other countries.
“As you begin your work, remember that serving Rwandans is your primary duty…The responsibility rests in your hands, and your abilities must be used properly. We expect much from you, but always start by behaving well, protecting your lives, taking care of your livelihoods, and supporting those around you,” he said.
The Head of State cautioned officers to avoid negative behaviours such as alcohol abuse, drug use, and neglecting responsibilities, which can endanger themselves and others.
“We do not want all the progress you have made to be wasted due to bad habits, such as drinking, drug use, or other inappropriate behaviors, whether they originate at home or elsewhere. These are not lessons to follow.
During the ceremony, President Kagame awarded the top-performing students among the officer cadets. Officer Cadet Jean de Dieu Iyakaremye emerged as the best student among those who completed the nine-month course.
The top-performing student among the four-year program graduates is Officer Cadet Yves Ndamukunda.
Among cadets trained in partner countries, the top student is Officer Cadet Dan Ataho Bakangambira, trained in Uganda.
The overall top performer, and best among those who completed the one-year course, is Officer Cadet Emmanuel Kayitare.
New officers march in parade during the graduation of the 12th intake of Officer Basic Training at Rwanda Military Academy in Gako, Bugesera District on Friday, October 3.
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