Rwanda National Police

The Minister of Internal Security, Dr. Vincent Biruta, on Wednesday, October 28, officiated the pass-out of 1,652 trainees who completed the 22nd intake of the Basic Police Course at the Police Training School (PTS) Gishari in Rwamagana District.

The 1,315 male and 337 female graduates include 60 who will join the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS) and 40 who will join the Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS).

Addressing the graduates, Minister Biruta said evolving security challenges require police officers to have skills beyond law enforcement, including crime prevention, effective use of technology, public engagement and evidence-based decision-making.

“We are living in a time when the world is facing rapid and increasingly complex changes in the security landscape,” he said.

He added that police officers must be able to prevent crime, use technology appropriately, communicate effectively with the public and make decisions based on the law, evidence and the public interest.

The Minister noted that although Rwanda generally enjoys a stable security situation, challenges such as alcohol and drug abuse, theft, assault and road accidents continue to affect public safety and well-being. He also highlighted emerging threats, including cybercrime, online fraud, the misuse of information and artificial intelligence (AI), transnational crime, terrorism, human trafficking and corruption.

“Today, we must address cybercrime, online fraud, the misuse of information and artificial intelligence (AI), transnational crime, terrorism, human trafficking, corruption and other activities that could undermine public security and the functioning of national institutions,” he said.

Minister Biruta called for proactive policing, urging officers to anticipate potential threats and prevent crime rather than respond only after offences have been committed.

“We need a Police force that anticipates potential challenges and prevents crime rather than waiting to investigate offences after they have been committed,” he said.

He congratulated the graduates on choosing a career in policing and urged them to uphold discipline, professionalism, commitment and integrity while protecting the reputation of Rwanda and its people wherever they serve.

The Commandant of PTS Gishari, Commissioner of Police (CP) Rafiki Mujiji, said the graduates had demonstrated the knowledge, discipline and commitment required to fulfil their responsibilities.

He reminded them that their initial training was only the beginning of their professional development, noting that they would continue receiving further training throughout their service in Rwanda National Police.

During the course, the trainees studied firearms handling, drills and duties, physical fitness, public order management, Police operations, laws governing police work and community policing, among other subjects. The training was designed to equip them with the knowledge, practical skills and professional conduct required to carry out their duties effectively.