Rwandan teams claimed three trophies and 32 medals — 10 gold, 8 silver, and 14 bronze — at the 5th edition of the EAPCCO Games 2025, a competition bringing together police chiefs and security officers from East African countries.
The tournament, hosted in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital, concluded on Saturday, May 3, with Rwanda’s Police Handball Club (Police HC) winning their fourth consecutive gold medal after defeating the Ethiopian team 40-22.
The competition featured 14 member countries of EAPCCO, who competed in six disciplines: athletics, boxing, darts, handball, shooting, and the martial art of Taekwondo.
Besides the handball victory, Rwanda also secured gold medals in Taekwondo and shooting. These three disciplines were the only ones where Rwanda fielded teams, yet they managed to finish second overall, behind Ethiopia, which had teams in six sports.
The Inspector General of Rwanda National Police (IGP), CG Felix Namuhoranye — who also serves as EAPCCO’s president — thanked all participating nations and teams for their one-week stay in Ethiopia.
He said: “We thank you all for participating in these games. You did not only show your sporting skills but also demonstrated integrity, dedication, and teamwork — which are the hallmarks of the security forces you represent.”
He also appreciated the Ethiopian Police for their excellent organization and warm hospitality during the EAPCCO Games.
IGP Namuhoranye emphasized that this annual event, hosted by different countries in turns, is a platform for strengthening cooperation and building bonds among member states in pursuit of sustainable peace and security in the region.
He added: “The friendships built, experiences shared, and knowledge exchanged during these games collectively enhance our capacity to serve and protect the citizens of our nations.”
He urged for even stronger commitment to this competition and stressed the importance of teamwork in securing a united and peaceful region.
The Commissioner General of the Ethiopian Police, Demelash Gebremichael, in his remarks, also highlighted that the value of the EAPCCO Games extends beyond sports.
He noted: “The EAPCCO Games are not just about winning — they play a vital role in building collaboration and professionalism within the region’s security institutions.”
