On Tuesday, May 6, Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) in charge of Operations, Vincent Sano, addressed 320 Rwandan police officers preparing for deployment to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).
The officers are divided into two contingents: RWAFPU1, comprising 140 officers led by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Bernardin Nsengiyumva, will operate in Bangui, the capital; and RWAFPU2, consisting of 180 officers under Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Jules Rutayisire, will be stationed in Kaga Bandoro.
DIGP Sano reminded the officers that they represent not only the Rwanda National Police but also the nation itself. He emphasized the importance of upholding Rwanda’s reputation through exemplary conduct.
“In this mission, you represent your country beyond its borders. You are being deployed to perform duties aligned with police responsibilities under the United Nations. The guidance you receive reinforces your training, and you must align it with your mission to uphold the nation’s image,” he stated.
He acknowledged the commendable performance of previous contingents and urged the officers to build upon that legacy. He advised them to be prepared for challenges related to climate, culture, and other factors, and to handle them professionally.
“You are being deployed under the United Nations to contribute to restoring security in the host country. To fulfill your duties effectively and follow in the footsteps of your predecessors, you must exhibit professionalism, discipline, commitment, and diligence. This is why you have undergone extensive training after being selected based on the trust placed in you by the Police and the nation,” he added.
DIGP Sano further instructed the officers to prioritize obedience to leadership, adherence to work-related directives, proper handling of equipment, and safeguarding themselves and their colleagues. He cautioned against negligence and excessive use of social media, urging them to remain patriotic and uphold the nation’s dignity.
Rwanda began deploying police officers to the Central African Republic in 2014. Since then, the country has maintained four police contingents under MINUSCA:
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RWAFPU-1 and RWAPSU operating in Bangui.
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RWAFPU-2 stationed in Kaga Bandoro, approximately 300 kilometers north of Bangui.
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RWAFPU-3 based in Bangassou, over 720 kilometers southeast of Bangui.
The United Nations mission in the Central African Republic aims to assist in restoring stability and promoting lasting peace following years of conflict and ethnic tensions.
Rwandan police contingents (RWAFPUs) are tasked with protecting civilians, including those in internally displaced persons camps, securing critical infrastructure, escorting UN personnel and equipment, and other responsibilities.
The RWAPSU unit primarily focuses on the security of high-ranking officials in the Central African Republic government and the United Nations, including the Prime Minister, the President of the National Assembly, the Minister of Justice, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) and their deputies, as well as the Head of the MINUSCA Police Division.
