English
Kinyarwanda
By AIP Jolly Mutamba
“Members of Ansar al-Sunnah terrorist group in Mozambique shiver at the mention of Rwanda Security Forces (Rwanda Defense Forces and Rwanda National Police). They know these people handle terrorism like no one else.”
Over the past two decades, the world has witnessed an alarming rise in terrorism, with countries in the global north being the primary targets. Rwanda, though far from those regions, was neither immune nor spared from the threat.
With leadership that prioritizes security, Rwanda prepared itself before tragedy could strike. The Rwanda National Police (RNP) was one among the chosen security organs assigned to build specialized capacity for counterterrorism.
Among the measures taken by the institution, one stood out: the establishment of a dedicated counterterrorism training facility. That is how the Mayange Counter Terrorism Training Center (CTTC) was born.
Located in Bugesera District and established back in 2013, the center was given a clear mission: to train a highly skilled police force capable of preventing and combating terrorism in all its forms.
From the start, CTTC Mayange focused on providing top tier training in special forces, equipping officers with tactical, technical, and operational skills to respond effectively to modern security and terrorism challenges.
A counterterrorism trainees conduct a high-stakes building assault exercise, descending from a multi-story structure with precision and coordination to simulate a real-world hostage rescue or tactical operation
In its early days, it kicked off trainings with 300 candidates and 60 instructors. So far it has graduated specifically 3832 police officers and has expanded its scope of programs within three divisions: the Special Forces Wing, the Counterterrorism and Intelligence Wing, and the Specialized and Career Courses Wing.
Programs at CTTC run from three to six months, with specialized courses designed to meet the demands of counterterrorism operations. What began as a modest initiative has now grown into a modern facility capable of accommodating over 2,000 students at once.
The center today boasts well equipped classrooms, dormitories, advanced training equipment, and recreational facilities, providing both intensive instruction and support for the mental and physical well-being of trainees.
Even better CTTC Mayange’s impact has extended beyond Rwanda’s borders. It now partners with different institutions at regional and international levels which saw it adding participants from countries such as the Central African Republic and South Sudan.
Currently, around 2,000 police officers, both Rwandan and international, are undergoing training on site.
Trainees here conduct a high-altitude helicopter descent over a lake, showcasing advanced tactical skills in a challenging water-based training scenario
According to the center’s leadership, the emphasis remains on practical exercises, use of modern technology, and advanced operational tactics, all geared toward ensuring national security and contributing to regional stability.
“Looking ahead, CTTC Mayange envisions further expanding its programs, upgrading infrastructure, and enhancing the quality of teaching,” explained Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Méthode Munyaneza, the Acting Commandant of the center adding that the goal is to take an officer with basic knowledge and transform them into a highly skilled professional capable of handling the most complex counterterrorism tasks.
Inspector of Police (IP) Godfrey Muzungu, Is one of the officers that have participated in real counterterrorism missions, applying their training in live operations, as he was part of the first cohort of Rwandan Security Forces deployed to Mozambique. He recalls how the training prepared him for combat against Ansar al-Sunnah and Islamic State fighters.
CTTC Mayange offers officers a highly skilled training sharpening them towards preventing and combating terrorism
“I participated in a one-year special forces course at CTTC Mayange from 2021 to 2022 before joining operations in Cabo Delgado,” he said. “The course equipped us with advanced skills in firearms, fear management, field tactics for difficult terrains and even parachute training from aircraft and high buildings to reach terrorists wherever they hide. All this helped us realize successful operations in Mozambique.
In a world where terrorism constantly evolves, CTTC Mayange stands as a beacon of readiness, resilience, and cooperation. It proves that with the right skills, knowledge, and partnerships, the fight against terror can be effectively confronted.
In the end, CTTC Mayange is more than a training ground. It is one of Rwanda’s frontline defenses; a factory of resilience where ordinary officers are turned into extraordinary protectors. In a region where terrorism keeps mutating, Rwanda has shown one truth: preparation is the strongest weapon.
Rwandan National Police (RNP) officers, including former trainees from the Counter Terrorism Training Centre (CTTC) in Mayange, conduct routine patrols in a city street in Mozambique, enhancing regional security cooperation
