Kigali, 19 June 2024

Today, the three-month Defence and Security Citizen Outreach Programme 2024 which was launched on 1 March 2024, in collaboration with  local government concluded across the country.

Various ministers oversaw the closing ceremony in different parts of the country. In Bugesera,  the Minister of Defence, Hon Juvenal Marizamunda officiated while Minister of Local Government, Hon Musabyimana Jean Claude handled Gisagara and Nyaruguru. In Kigali city, the Minister of Health, Hon Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana officiated. Rutsiro had the Minister of Infrastructure, Hon Dr. Jimmy Gasore, while Kamonyi was handled by the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion, Hon Consolée Uwimana.  Similarly, the Minister of Environment, Hon Dr. Uwamariya Valentine went to Gakenke. While Gen MK Mubarakh, the RDF Chief of Defence Staff and RNP IGP CG Felix Namuhoranye covered Ngoma and Musanze respectively.

While closing this activity across the country, the officials stated that from the outset, this program was envisioned as a collaborative mission, a unified effort between the Rwanda Defence Force, the Rwanda National Police, the local government, and the citizens.  
“Over these past three months, we have witnessed first-hand the realization of the vision set forth by the President of the Republic and Commander-in-Chief of the defense forces, His Excellency Paul Kagame. This vision, rooted in the Liberation Struggle, underscores that our security forces must serve as pillars of Rwanda’s development, working hand-in-hand with the public and other security organs. The synergy between our security forces and the public has indeed been the bedrock of our nation’s security and progress".

Over the last three months of this program, various community development initiatives have tackled human security concerns across different areas such as healthcare, education, environmental sustainability, public infrastructure, and utilities. 13 bridges and 31 homes have been constructed for families in need, and 15 Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers have been established.

In addition, 5 vehicles and 25 motorcycles were provided in sectors and cells, respectively, in recognition of their outstanding performance in security, hygiene, and fighting malnutrition. 124 bicycles were offered to deserving individuals in the community (Imboni z’impinduka) who serve as role models to others as agents for change, additionally  800 livestock were distributed to support the community, offering free medical services to over 72,000 patients across the country, drilling and providing water, and extending electricity to 327 households.

The initiative was held under the theme: "30 Years of Liberation: Defence & Security Organs with the Community Partnering for Rwanda's Development."