President Paul Kagame thanked all soldiers, men and women in the national defense forces, RDF, and other security agencies for their dedication and professionalism in continuing to uphold values and the security of the country.
Among the many challenges they have faced, including difficult ones, the men and women in the national defense forces and other security agencies, President Kagame said, continue to operate at the highest level, both within the country and in missions abroad.
He said, “Within the country, being vigilant has provided security for our people, ensures the security of our country, and continues to safeguard our integrity day by day.”
The Chief of Defense Forces stated that abroad, in peacekeeping missions, they continue to protect the objectives the country has set to safeguard human life at any cost, demonstrating their knowledge and strength in seeking solutions.
In this address, President Kagame said that the country has achieved many things, including enjoying peace and stability, reaching development in various sectors, and that Rwandan citizens appreciate their role, as it has allowed them to continue their activities in freedom and security, advancing their own development.
President Kagame said, “As mentioned above, today’s Rwandan defense forces and other security agencies are the forces I wanted to have.”
He thanked them for continuing this year to protect the country’s interests based on the pillars of national unity, dignity, and strength, and for demonstrating the highest level of integrity and patriotism.
In the coming year, President Kagame also called on the national defense forces and other security agencies to continue following the principles of integrity and to work transparently, as befits the national defense forces.
He asked them to remain vigilant, confront any challenges that may arise, and continue with the vision of a secure, developed, and united Rwanda.
Rwandans and the international community will not forget that in 2024, when fighting occurred in Goma between the AFC/M23, some Congolese soldiers and their allies fired at Rwanda, the Rwandan forces responded bravely, using extraordinary and advanced methods of missile interception.
Rwandan forces are engaged in various peacekeeping missions, along with the police. Specifically, under agreements that Rwandan forces have made with various countries to restore peace, in countries such as the Central African Republic, South Sudan, Mozambique in the Cabo Delgado region, where rebel groups had deprived civilians of safety.
