Retiring military officers honoured

Kigali, 02 August 2019

Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) has for the seventh time held a send-off ceremony to honour the service of 822 personnel who had reached retirement age including some whose service contracts had come to an end.

During the 2019 retirement phase, a total of 822 service personnel including 20 Senior Officers (2 Col, 6 Lt Col and 12 Maj) 363 career Officers and Other Ranks retired and 406 military personnel concluded their service contracts with RDF, while 33 others have been discharged on medical grounds.

The retires were awarded certificates as a recognition for their service rendered to Rwanda Defence Force.

In his speech at the send-off ceremony held on Friday at the RDF Headquarters Senior Officers Mess in Kimihurura, Lt Gen Jean Jacques Mupenzi, RDF Army Chief of Staff (ACOS) applauded the retirees for their personal sacrifices, service rendered and contribution to the country.

“You are part of the RDF family and the doors are always open for you.  Therefore, keep contributing to the country’s development as it the part of RDF mandate,” said Lt Gen Mupenzi.

On behalf of the retirees, Retired (Rtd) Col Fabien Musafiri emphasised that they remain ready to serve if recalled on duty. He also thanked the institution for having trained them in different fields.

Ceremonies also took place in different divisions around the country and at the RDF General Headquarters in Kanombe Military Baracks.