Rwanda National Police (RNP) and the Private Sector Federation (PSF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate partnership in fighting and preventing crime in general and in business community particularly.

The agreement was signed yesterday between the Inspector General of Police, Emmanuel K. Gasana and Claver Mugabo, the vice chairman of PSF, at a function held at the RNP headquarters in Kacyiru.

The overall objective of the MoU is to establish a framework for mutual cooperation through exchange of timely information, carryout joint training and joint investigations in crimes faced by the business community.

Other areas of cooperation include fighting graft related crimes, joint awareness, management and organisation of public transport companies to ensure road safety as well as ensuring that bars and restaurants operate as per the given licence while respecting the law.

IGP Gasana noted that the concept of security and development requires this kind of partnership to effectively address threats to rapid transformation.

There is no development without security and no security without development, he said, adding that both parties have an obligation to work together to ensure that all forms of crime affecting business are effectively addressed.

He outlined internet fraud, terrorism, counterfeit products, smuggling, money laundering, corruption and tax evasion as serious crimes that undermine not only security but also the business community in pursuit of national development.

"RNP considers members of the private sector as ambassadors of crime prevention, and we have no doubt this partnership will reinforce such community policing initiatives through timely information sharing, joint awareness while enforcing the ideal of human security as we fight crimes like drug trafficking,” Gasana said.

"No country can develop without a sound and vibrant private sector. This partnership is, therefore, paramount in order to enhance business security in the country and subsequently help to achieve development this country desires.”

Mugabo commended RNP’s efforts and commitment to preserving an enabling environment for growth and development. "This level of safety and security has attracted and aided investment and business development. We are grateful to move together on this vital journey of sustainable security and making Rwanda a business hub,” he said.