Kigali, Rwanda -The Rwanda National Police on Friday, December 12, 2025, held a formal ceremony at its General Headquarters in Kacyiru to mark the retirement of 74 officers from active service, bringing to a close careers defined by years of commitment to national security and public safety.
The event, officiated by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Vincent Biruta, stood as a moment of recognition for the dedication, sacrifice and professionalism demonstrated by the retiring officers throughout their service.
It also served as a reflection on the role they played in strengthening Rwanda’s security institutions over the years.
Biruta commended the retirees for their contribution to building a peaceful and stable country, noting that their efforts formed part of the foundation upon which Rwanda’s current security and development progress rests.
“We thank you for the role you played in building the peaceful nation we enjoy today,” he said, acknowledging their place in shaping a secure environment for citizens and investors alike.
The Minister highlighted that Rwanda’s dependable security system has enabled citizens to fully engage in social and economic development while attracting investment.
He stressed that such achievements would not have been possible without the commitment of officers who dedicated their working lives to public service.
As the officers transition into civilian life, Biruta reassured them that retirement does not signal an end to their responsibility toward national security.
“Retirement does not mean disengaging from security matters; it only changes the space from which you contribute,” he said, encouraging them to remain active in protecting their communities in cooperation with citizens, local authorities and security agencies.
He further urged the retirees to learn from colleagues who retired before them and successfully adjusted to post-service life, while also expressing appreciation to their families for the support and sacrifices made throughout their careers.
The Inspector General of Police, CG Felix Namuhoranye, also paid tribute to the retiring officers, praising their loyalty, discipline and commitment to duty.
He noted that their service and conduct left a lasting mark on the institution and the country at large. “You served your country with dedication and worked tirelessly to ensure peace and security. Your good work and the values that guided you will not be forgotten,” he said.
Namuhoranye emphasized that the end of active service does not diminish the retirees’ value to the nation. “Although you are retiring, you are not worn out.
The country still needs you in other responsibilities, and we will continue to work together,” he said, pointing to the continued role retirees can play in mentorship, community development and experience sharing.
He also recognized officers who retired earlier for their ongoing support to the police force and their positive impact within communities, encouraging the new retirees to uphold the same standards.
“As you move into the next phase of life, continue to uphold discipline, patriotism and dedication. Remain exemplary figures wherever you go,” he advised.
Speaking on behalf of the retirees, retired Assistant Commissioner of Police Sam Rumanzi described the occasion as a proud and meaningful milestone.
He expressed gratitude for the recognition accorded to them and appreciation to President Paul Kagame for allowing them to retire with dignity. He said their years of service had been both demanding and transformative.
“Our journey has been long and filled with lessons that will continue to guide us beyond active duty. As we enter this new chapter, we reaffirm our commitment to the oath we took and to serving our country wherever we are needed,” he said.
Rumanzi also thanked the Ministry of Internal affairs, the leadership of the Rwanda National Police, fellow officers and partners for their support throughout their careers.
He noted that although they were leaving active service, they would carry forward the discipline, professionalism and values of the police institution, remaining ready to contribute to national development whenever called upon.
