On behalf of the Government of Rwanda, and on my own behalf, I wish the officers, men, and women of the Rwanda Defence and Security Forces, and your families, a Happy New Year 2023.

As we approach the end of 2022, I wish to commend your exemplary service, hard work and professionalism in delivering your core duty of defending the people and territory of Rwanda, and addressing pressing issues of human security as the bedrock of sustainable peace.

Beyond our borders, Rwanda’s Defence and Security Forces have participated in tackling challenges in partner countries in Africa through bilateral cooperation, particularly in fighting terrorism in Mozambique, and contributing to peace and stability in the Central African Republic.

Our peacekeepers deployed under United Nations missions continue to be good ambassadors of Rwanda, consistently representing the best values that we stand for.

I wish to express my sincere appreciation to all of you for making our country proud.

It is not easy to be separated from loved ones at this time of year, for those deployed away from home. Rwanda appreciates this invaluable spirit of dedication.

I pay tribute to our departed comrades who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our nation and the world in 2022. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen, and assure you that the leaders and people of Rwanda stand firmly with you.

The beginning of a new year is an opportunity to renew your pledge to protect our country against all threats, so that we can sustain Rwanda’s hard-earned economic and social progress.

Let me conclude, once again, with best wishes for the New Year.

May God bless Rwanda.