Rwanda National Police

Rwanda National Police (RNP) has received 210 police peacekeepers who returned home after completing a one-year United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic (CAR), marking another milestone in Rwanda's long-standing contribution to global peace and security.

The returning contingent, commanded by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jean D'Amour Ndagijimana, arrived at Kigali International Airport on Wednesday, July 15, after serving under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).

They were replaced by a new contingent led by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Aimable Busasa, which departed earlier the same day to continue Rwanda's peacekeeping responsibilities in the conflict-affected nation.

The rotation involved officers from three Rwanda National Police contingents deployed in CAR, including Rwanda Formed Police Unit One (RWAFPU-1), Rwanda Formed Police Unit Two (RWAFPU-2), and the Protection Support Unit (RWAPSU).

Welcoming the officers home, Commissioner of Police (CP) Yahaya Kamunuga, the Commissioner for Peace Support Operations, commended the contingent for demonstrating professionalism, discipline and dedication throughout their deployment.

"Today, we proudly welcome you home after a year of distinguished service under the United Nations flag. Your professionalism, discipline and commitment have not only represented the Rwanda National Police with honour but have also strengthened Rwanda's reputation as a trusted contributor to international peacekeeping," CP Kamunuga said.

He praised the officers for upholding the values expected of Rwandan peacekeepers despite serving far from their families and in a challenging security environment.

"Serving in a peacekeeping mission is both a privilege and a great responsibility. The excellence you demonstrated abroad reflects the values we uphold as a nation. Having successfully fulfilled this important mandate, I am confident you will continue serving our country with the same dedication as Rwanda advances its development and security agenda," he added.

Speaking on behalf of the returning contingent, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jean D'Amour Ndagijimana said the officers successfully executed their mandate, which included conducting patrols, protecting public officials and maintaining public order and security.

He noted that, beyond their core security responsibilities, the contingent also prioritized community engagement initiatives to strengthen trust between security institutions and residents.

"Throughout our deployment, we remained committed not only to maintaining peace and protecting civilians but also to building lasting relationships with the communities we served. We participated in Umuganda, improved access to clean water and organised sporting activities with residents, initiatives that fostered cooperation, mutual trust and community resilience," SSP Ndagijimana said.

He added that the mission's success was made possible by teamwork, discipline, and the unwavering support of the Rwanda National Police leadership.

"We return home with valuable operational experience, stronger partnerships, and the satisfaction of having contributed to peace and stability in the Central African Republic. We remain ready to continue serving wherever our country calls upon us," he said.

Rwanda has maintained police peacekeepers in the Central African Republic under MINUSCA since 2014 and remains among the leading contributors to United Nations peacekeeping operations.

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