President Paul Kagame, the Commander-in-Chief of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), has commended the RDF and other security organs for their service and professionalism in 2025, urging them to remain vigilant and uphold integrity and accountability as the country heads into the new year. In his end-of-year message delivered in Kigali on December 29, Kagame said the dedication of Rwanda’s security forces continues to safeguard national sovereignty, protect citizens and support peace and stability beyond the country’s borders.
Kagame highlighted the role of the RDF in maintaining internal security while also contributing to regional and international peacekeeping efforts, noting that their work has created a stable environment that allows Rwandans to pursue socio-economic activities. He paid special tribute to soldiers and officers deployed away from their families during the festive season and honoured families who lost loved ones in service, reaffirming the government’s commitment to stand by them.
The message comes at a time when security remained a central issue in the region surrounding Rwanda throughout 2025, marked by persistent instability in parts of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, heightened regional tensions, and increased diplomatic engagement among neighbouring states. During the year, Rwanda intensified cross-border security cooperation and participated in regional and international efforts aimed at containing armed group activity and preventing the spillover of insecurity into its territory.
Domestically, the RDF continued to focus on professionalisation and capacity building, including advanced training, regional military cooperation initiatives and participation in continental peacekeeping missions. These developments, Kagame noted, reinforce the RDF’s role as a pillar of national unity, stability and resilience.
As Rwanda prepares for 2026, the President urged the security forces to remain adaptive to evolving threats while continuing to serve with honour, patriotism and discipline, stressing that their sacrifices remain central to the country’s peace and future progress.
