The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) in charge of Operations, Vincent Sano, has urged Rwandan police officers preparing to deploy to the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) to uphold professionalism and represent their country with pride.
He delivered this message on Monday, June 9, at the Rwanda National Police headquarters in Kacyiru while addressing 140 police officers of the RWAPSU I-10 contingent, led by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) James Karasi. These officers are set to replace their colleagues who have completed a one-year mission in Bangui, the country’s capital.
DIGP Sano commended their dedication and discipline throughout their training period and encouraged them to remain professional, work as a team, and respect the culture of the communities they will engage with.
He stated:
“You have shown your readiness, and you are well equipped and willing to fulfill your mission. You are expected to continue exhibiting discipline and professionalism. Remember, you are representing your country—strive to make it proud. Uphold our values, and be ambassadors of peace and integrity.”
DIGP Sano also reminded them to follow in the footsteps of those they are replacing by continuing initiatives that promote community well-being and building strong relationships with local populations, as well as cooperating effectively with other national security forces.
He further emphasized that they should always be conscious of the responsibility they carry and make effective use of the equipment at their disposal.
Since 2014, Rwanda has been deploying police officers to the UN peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic. Currently, Rwanda has four police units operating in different regions of the country: Bangui, Bangassou, and Kaga Bandoro.
The RWAPSU unit is specifically tasked with protecting high-level officials, including the Prime Minister, the Speaker of Parliament, the Minister of Justice, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) and deputies, as well as the head of MINUSCA Police.
