A total of 1,652 trainees, including 337 women, have completed basic police training in Rwanda, with Interior Minister Dr Vincent Biruta calling on the new recruits to strengthen crime prevention and build public trust.
The graduates completed the 22nd intake of the Basic Police Course at Gishari Police Training School in Rwamagana District. Their graduation ceremony was presided over by Biruta on Wednesday, October 28.
The graduating class also included 60 trainees from the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS) and 40 from the Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS). The new Rwanda National Police recruits were awarded the rank of Police Constable.
Addressing the graduates, Biruta emphasised the need for police officers to identify and prevent security threats before they develop into crimes.
He said effective policing requires officers to work closely with citizens, use technology responsibly and make decisions based on the law, evidence and professional standards.
The minister identified drug abuse, theft, road accidents, cybercrime, online fraud, human trafficking and terrorism among the challenges facing law enforcement agencies.
He also warned that the rapid spread of misinformation through social media could threaten public safety, requiring officers to remain vigilant and communicate responsibly.
Biruta stressed that public confidence is essential to effective policing because citizens are more likely to report suspicious activities and share information when they trust law enforcement officers.
“Our Police should not be an institution that citizens fear, but one they trust because they know it exists to protect them,” he said.
He urged the graduates to exercise their authority lawfully, respect human rights and maintain discipline throughout their careers.
According to Commissioner of Police Rafiki Mujiji, Commandant of Gishari Police Training School, 1,681 candidates initially enrolled in the programme, but 29 did not complete it for reasons including illness and misconduct.
The graduates received training in public order management, firearms handling, community policing, police operations, relevant laws, first aid, leadership and communication
During the ceremony, they demonstrated some of the skills acquired through their training, including crowd management and marksmanship.
The three best-performing graduates were also recognised, with Moses Shema taking first place, followed by Jimmy Gatete and Abdallah Musinga.
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