Rwanda National Police

One hundred thirty nine Police officers completed a three month 'VIP Guard and Protection' and 'Logistics' course on March 27 as the force continues to build capacities of officers in various policing disciplines.

At least one hundred officers completed the VIP Protection course at the Police Counter-Terror Training Centre in Mayange, Bugesera district, while the logistical course was held at the Police Training School (PTS) Gishari in Rwamagana District.

The pass out of the second intake VIP Protection course that includes three females, was presided over by the Inspector General of Police, Emmanuel K. Gasana.

IGP Gasana noted that Rwanda National Police gives value to this course adding that the tactics involved are relevant today owing to the "evolving policing environment."

He noted that the acquired skills will excel the mission of the force, and added that it fits in the whole idea of ensuring that "people living in Rwanda are secure and protected."

"Rwanda is developing very fast and officers also have to move with development by acquiring new relevant skills required to ensure a smooth and secure developing society," IGP Gasana said.

"This is on-job training that brings about innovation, change and initiatives that will bring value addition to what's required in your duties," he added.

He observed that the acquired skills are required both locally and in internationally in peacekeeping missions.

RNP maintains over 600 officers in eight peacekeeping missions, who include three Formed Police Units (FPU) contingents comprised of 140 officers each, whole mission mainly focuses on VIP protection and other humanitarian assistance.

The Police Chief disclosed that they intend to introduce new curriculum within this course such as customer care, effective communication and protocol to cement the whole proactive concept of community policing.

During the three-month training, the officers covered areas like VIP escorting and protection, map reading and navigation, among others.

At PTS where DIGP In charge of Administration and Personnel, Juvenal Marizamunda officiated at the closure of the course, he challenged the officers to be catalysts in the proper management of the force equipment.

Training remains one of the priorities of Rwanda National Police to keep the officers informed and skilled in the face of the emerging security challenges.