Arrival of the Guest of honor at the ceremony.

The graduates were 75 officers, comprising 71 from the Rwanda Defence Force, two from the Rwanda National Police, and two from the Rwanda Correctional Service, successfully completed the 21weeks of Junior Command and Staff Course at the RDF Command and Staff College in Nyakinama.

The Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Army Chief of Staff, Major General Vincent Nyakarundi, who presided over the ceremony on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, congratulated the graduates on completing their transformative professional military training. He emphasised that the knowledge and skills acquired would enable them to safeguard Rwanda’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“He stated: “The RDF’s strategic prioritisation of institutional capacity building is achieved through structured education and training, ensuring operational readiness and mission-oriented officers capable of addressing security challenges. Training remains central to maintaining relevance in an increasingly complex and volatile operating environment.”

Major General Vincent Nyakarundi urged the graduating officers to uphold the RDF’s noble responsibility of protecting the nation’s interests at all times. He also reminded them that discipline is the foundation of operational effectiveness and ethical leadership within the Rwanda Defence Force.

The ACOS, Maj Gen V NYAKARUNDI, giving his keynote address.

The pass-out ceremony was honored by Generals and senior officers from the RDF and Rwanda National Police. The spouses, parents, friends, and relatives of the graduates, along with religious leaders and local authorities from the Northern Province, attended it.

The Commandant of the RDF Command and Staff College, Brigadier General Andrew Nyamvumba, commended the graduates for their outstanding discipline, teamwork, and dedication throughout the 21weeks of the course. He emphasised that these qualities were instrumental in their success.

Awards were presented to graduates who excelled in various aspects of the course. The overall best student was Major Nice Chris Calvin Kayitaba, and CIP Franklin Amanya took the second overall award while Major Eugene Niyonsenga received the Best College Research Paper award. 

The commandant, Brig Gen A NYAMVUMBA giving his remarks.

The overall best student, Major Nice Chris Calvin Kayitaba, receiving his award.

The second overall best student receiving his award, CIP Franklin Amanya.

The best Commandant Research Paper receiving his award, Major Eugene Niyonsenga.

The graduates marching to receive certificates.

Group photo with family members of the graduates.

The ACOS, Maj Gen V NYAKARUNDI signing in the visitor’s book.