Today, the Rwanda Defence Force Chief of Defence Staff, Gen MK Mubarakh, presided over the graduation of 74 officers from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), Rwanda National Police (RNP), and Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS), who successfully completed 22 weeks of the Junior Command and Staff Course (Intake 26) at Nyakinama in Musanze District. The graduates include five female officers.

The Junior Command and Staff Course equipped the officers with the knowledge and skills required to undertake tactical command responsibilities up to Brigade level, as well as to effectively perform military staff functions.

In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff congratulated the graduates and reminded them that the training shaped them into leaders capable of promoting positive change and upholding the values of patriotism, integrity, and commitment.

He also expressed appreciation to the families of the graduates for their support and endurance during the period the officers were away from home.
“I am confident that this course has prepared you to be proactive and solution-oriented leaders. I urge you to rise to greater challenges and contribute to building the defence force and nation that we all want and deserve. To the families of the graduates, thank you for standing with them while they were away during the course,” he said.

The Commandant of the Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College, Brig Gen Andrew Nyamvumba, noted that all participants successfully met the course requirements as mid-level tactical commanders. He added that the training equipped them with the competence and character needed to address both national and international security challenges.

Maj Alain Kirenga, the overall best student, expressed appreciation to the institution and noted that the skills acquired would enable them to perform their duties efficiently at Brigade level, both in command and planning roles.

Capt Orice Kayiranga was awarded second-best overall student. Maj Angelo Birasa was named third-best student, while Maj James Tindifa Hodali received the award for best command research paper.

The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including the Mayor of Musanze District, who represented the Governor, as well as generals and senior officers.