Kigali, 28 July 2025

The Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) has, for the thirteenth time, held a send-off ceremony to honor and bid farewell to its service members, who have reached retirement age and those whose service contracts have come to an end, in recognition of the dedicated service rendered. The official ceremony took place at RDF Headquarters in Kimihurura, for RDF Generals and Senior Officers, while that for Junior Officers and Other Ranks was held at each RDF Division’s headquarters across the country and the General Headquarters, Kanombe, for RDF Units around Kigali city.

The ceremony was presided over by the Minister of Defence, Honourable Juvenal Marizamunda, on behalf of the Commander-in-Chief of the RDF. Also in attendance were the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen MK Mubarakh, RDF Service Chiefs, Generals, Senior Officers, and the retirees’ spouses

On behalf of the President of the Republic of Rwanda and Commander-in-Chief of the RDF, the Minister of Defence, Honourable Juvenal Marizamunda, expressed his appreciation for the outstanding service rendered by Retirees during the times when Rwanda needed them. “You stood firm during the liberation struggle, stopped the genocide against Tutsi, and have been instrumental in rebuilding our country ever since. You played a crucial role in transforming RDF into a strong and professional force, both within Rwanda and on international platforms. Your contributions, especially in the military, have left a lasting legacy.” He said

He also said that even as they retire, their experience and wisdom remain vital to our nation progress. He urged them to always be part of the RDF family and assured them to continue to benefit from their expertise.

In his address, the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen MK Mubarakh, expressed appreciation to the RDF retirees for their sacrifices, commitment, and significant contribution to the nation. He commended them for the discipline they upheld throughout their military careers and encouraged them to continue collaborating with the wider Rwandan community in efforts to develop the country.

"Today marks a special day for soldiers who have made immense sacrifices. While you are retiring from active military service, you are not retiring from the values of the Rwanda Defence Force. These values will continue to guide you and keep you ready to serve whenever called upon. We are deeply grateful for the dedication and loyalty you demonstrated, from the liberation struggle, through the efforts to stop the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, to the long and difficult journey of rebuilding our nation. You have played a vital role in shaping Rwanda into the country it is today."
He also extends heartfelt thanks to the retirees’ spouses who stood strong in their absence, holding the families together and supporting their service from afar, noting their resilience is deeply appreciated.

Maj Gen (Rtd) Wilson Gumisiriza, speaking on behalf of the retirees, expressed pride in the progress of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the contributions they made in transforming it into the respected institution it is today. He noted that although they are entering a new phase in life, they remain committed to serving Rwanda in different ways.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to the President of the Republic for the visionary leadership he provided to the RDF, which has grown into a highly respected force, both nationally and internationally. Although we have retired from active duty, we remain ready and willing to serve our country whenever called upon. Today, we may be taking off our military uniforms, but we are not stepping away from our duty to the nation,” he said.

As a token of appreciation, the retirees were awarded certificates in recognition of their dedicated service to the Rwanda Defence Force.