Gen Kabarebe hails RDF Reservists for their commitment to serve Rwanda

Nyabihu, 2 September 2019

General James Kabarebe has commended the readiness of members of Rwanda Defence Force Reserve Force undertaking their regular training named Fit For Activation (FFA) in Mukamira barracks, Nyabihu District. The Security Advisor to the President of the Republic of Rwanda said this in his remarks while addressing about 1000 course participants and Reservists from Musanze and Nyabihu districts, today 02 September 2019.

“I am happy to be with you; thank you for your voluntary participation in this important training. We all know Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) is a strong force but it is even stronger when it has, in reserve, willing and strong members like you who can be mobilised whenever required. This is an indication that you remain committed to serve your nation and this is commendable”, Gen Kabarebe told the Reservists undergoing a six-week ‘Fit for Activation’ training in Mukamira.

While delivering a lecture on the history of the Liberation Struggle and the campaign against the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, General Kabarebe commended the visionary leadership of Rwanda that led the National Liberation Struggle which laid the foundation of a prosperous Rwanda for all. “Your presence here, together as retired RDF members, Ex Government Force members and combatants of different armed groups is an indication that we have achieved the unity and reconciliation of Rwandans that we fought for.”

One of the course participants, Col (retired) Martin Nzitonda a former combatant from FDLR and later RUD URANANA, underscored that the course is very beneficial for Reservists who served in different forces.

“we came here for this training aimed at equipping us with common skills that will enable us defend and develop our nation as one strong force. A successful defence force, like said General Kabarebe, is one with a strong Reserve Force. We have served in different forces and this is the first time we are given an opportunity to train together. We thank the leadership of Rwanda for this opportunity.”

The RDF is a three Service Defence Force comprising of the Land Force, the Air Force and the Reserve Force whose main role is to Augment the Rwanda Defence Force active service when called upon under partial or total mobilization. The Reserve Force is composed of a small active force with the remainder of its members being able retired members and other willing Rwandans who are trained and mobilised only when required.