Kigali, Rwanda – Rwanda has once again stepped onto the global security stage with the deployment of elite teams from the Rwanda National Police (RNP) and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) to the ongoing UAE SWAT Challenge in Dubai.
Regarded as one of the world’s most demanding competitions for special police and tactical units, the event brings together highly trained forces from across continents, offering a rare platform where precision, endurance and tactical excellence are tested under intense pressure.
The seventh edition of the challenge, which began on Saturday, February 7, and runs until the 11th, has drawn 109 teams from around the world. Rwanda is represented by three teams.
The competition assesses participants on complex scenarios that mirror real-life high-risk operations, including counterterrorism drills, forced entry, hostage rescue and precision shooting, all performed against strict time and safety standards.
Rwanda’s participation comes with a growing track record in which last year, the RNP secured a gold medal in the obstacle course category, highlighting the country’s reputation as a disciplined and capable force in elite security operations.
Over the years, Rwanda has taken part in six of the seven editions since the competition was launched in 2019, steadily improving its performance and visibility on the global stage.
Early results from this year’s contest show Rwanda competing against some of the world’s most experienced units. On the opening day, teams from Kazakhstan and Russia dominated the top ranks, while RNP SWAT team I placed 12th with 99 points.
RNP SWAT team II followed in 23rd position with 88 points, and the RDF special operations forces team ranked 33rd with 78 points. In the 2025 edition, RNP SWAT team I finished 11th overall with 407 points, while team II placed 18th with 357 points.
Speaking ahead of the competition, the commissioner in charge of operations and public order at the RNP, CP George Rumanzi, noted that the UAE SWAT challenge grows more competitive each year but expressed confidence in Rwanda’s preparedness, particularly in obstacle-based disciplines.
Rwanda’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, John Mirenge, urged the teams to perform at their highest level. In a message shared on X, the Embassy of Rwanda in the UAE said: “He wished them success and encouraged them to give their all and perform at the highest level during the competition.”
The UAE SWAT Challenge serves as a vital forum for exchanging expertise and strengthening international cooperation, an objective Rwanda continues to embrace as it measures itself against the world’s best.
