President of the Republic and Commander-in-Chief of the Rwandan Defence Forces, Paul Kagame, has called on newly trained officers to remain vigilant and prepared to confront any threats that may compromise the country’s security, emphasizing that Rwanda will never accept anything that undermines its sovereignty.
President Kagame delivered this message on Monday, August 25, 2025, during the official closing of a training exercise involving over 6,000 commanding officers from the RDF, Rwanda National Police, and Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS), held at the Gabiro Military Training Center in Gatsibo District.
In his remarks, President Kagame pointed out that Rwanda continues to face various challenges, including rhetoric and actions aimed at destabilizing the nation. He affirmed that the country has the right to defend itself and determine its own path.
He reminded them that Rwanda’s history is not solely defined by past wars and stressed that the country reserves the right to defend itself if provoked. He also noted that Rwanda does not export insecurity to other nations but rather contributes to building peace in other countries through the participation of its forces in peacekeeping missions.
President Kagame emphasized the need for responsible use of the country’s military resources, especially ammunition, which he noted has become increasingly expensive, citing that a single bullet can cost up to $5,000. He urged precision and discipline in military operations, saying that missing a target can have serious consequences, as enemies also have ammunition.
He reiterated that the mission of the Rwandan forces is not to attack others but to protect the nation and its citizens. He warned that Rwanda will never tolerate terrorism or any effort to derail its national trajectory, even as some individuals attempt to tarnish the country’s image through international media platforms.
He also highlighted the growing use of misinformation and propaganda as weapons to damage Rwanda’s reputation and urged security forces to confront these challenges head-on, describing it as a battle that must not be ignored.
In conclusion, President Kagame underlined that preparing for battle requires foresight, professionalism, and dedication, all rooted in a commitment to national development and the well-being of the Rwandan people.
