Africa-Press – Rwanda. The Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) on Monday, July 28, paid tribute to its retiring officers and those whose contracts have ended for their service to the nation, their role in the liberation struggle, stopping the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, and rebuilding the country into a beacon of resilience and progress.
This was the RDF’s 13th annual send-off ceremony to honour service members who have reached retirement age or whose contracts have ended. The official event for Generals and senior officers was held at RDF Headquarters in Kimihurura.
Similar events for junior officers and other ranks were celebrated at their respective division headquarters across the country and the General Headquarters in Kanombe for the units based in Kigali.
Presiding over the ceremony on behalf of President Paul Kagame, who is the Commander-in-Chief of the RDF, Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, commended the retirees for their selfless contributions in shaping the RDF into a professional, respected force.
“You stood firm during the liberation struggle, stopped the Genocide against the Tutsi, and have been instrumental in rebuilding our country ever since. You played a crucial role in transforming RDF into a strong and professional force, both within Rwanda and on international platforms. Your contributions, especially in the military, have left a lasting legacy,” Marizamunda said.
He added that even in retirement, their experience and wisdom remain vital to Rwanda’s progress.
The RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Mubarakh Muganga, who also attended the ceremony, echoed these sentiments, praising the retirees for their discipline and sacrifice.
“Today marks a special day for soldiers who have made immense sacrifices. While you are retiring from active military service, you are not retiring from the values of the Rwanda Defence Force. These values will continue to guide you and keep you ready to serve whenever called upon,” Muganga said.
He also extended thanks to the retirees’ spouses for their resilience and unwavering support during their loved ones’ years of service.
Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Maj Gen Rtd Wilson Gumisiriza reflected on the achievements made by the RDF and reaffirmed the retiring officers’ continued commitment to the nation.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to the President of the Republic for the visionary leadership he provided to the RDF, which has grown into a highly respected force, both nationally and internationally. Although we have retired from active duty, we remain ready and willing to serve our country whenever called upon,” Gumisiriza said.
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