17 April 2019

RDF has today launched the Citizen Outreach Programme 2019 (COP 2019) in which the Force carries out various activities geared towards socio-economic development of Rwanda and its citizens as per RDF mandate.

The events to officially kick off the various activities were held in all provinces and the City of Kigali; today in the districts of Nyarugenge, Karongi, Burera, and Rwamagana and on Thursday in Kamonyi. 

This is yet another opportunity to address specific issues of human security in areas of agriculture, health, shelter and infrastructure and other activities that will be earmarked by the districts. COP 2019 that starts today will be concluded on 30 July 2019 in collaboration with MINAGRI, MINISANTE and MINALOC.

In the City of Kigali, the COP 2019 started in Kigali Nyarugenge District, with the construction of a 3.8km water canal which will drain water from Mount Kigali to Kadobogo cell, Kigali Sector.

The Minister of Defence, Maj Gen Albert Murasira who officiated the launch of COP 2019 in Nyarugenge told area residents that the COP activities are meant to support citizens as part of a continuous drive to sustain the country’s development efforts.

“We have been doing this for the past ten years, and we pledge to continue partnering with you (community members) to ensure rapid development of our country,” he remarked.

In the Northern Province, hundreds gathered at Butaro Hospital in Burera District to benefit from free medical services that included minor surgeries, orthopedics, ophthalmology, dental, internal medicine, gynecology, pediatric and dermatology.

RDF Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen Patrick Nyamvumba told residents that RDF always fights for the development and wellbeing of Rwandans. “RDF is here to support you (the locals) by offering services you would travel kilometres to get. Your wellbeing is among RDF’s priorities,” said Gen Nyamvumba.

COP 2019 was also launched in the Eastern and Western Provinces where RDF was represented by the Reserve Force Chief of Staff (RFCOS), Lt Gen Jacques Musemakweli and the Air Force Chief of Staff (AFCOS), Maj Gen Charles Karamba respectively. The RFCOS joined residents of Mwurire sector, Rwamagana District in ploughing Nyirabidibiri swamp while the AFCOS took part in cassava planting and tree planting on terraces in Murundi sector of Karongi district.

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During COP 2019; 137,900 patients are expected to benefit from healthcare services, 1,141 houses will be constructed for the vulnerable and 11,139 Ha cultivated, 453 Kms protected from erosion and 1,114 Ha covered with progressive terraces.