The Minister for Defence, Gen James Kabarebe Friday presided over the send-off ceremony of retiring senior officers that took place at  RDF Sports Club, Nyarutarama. 

The ceremony was attended by the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Patrick Nyamvumba, service chiefs and other senior officers. 

The retiring officers were accompanied by their spouses.

The RDF also conducted similar ceremonies for junior officers and other ranks in their respective units. 448 RDF servicemen were retired in total.

"You have made personal sacrifices and contributed to make Rwanda a country we are proud to call home” Kabarebe said.

He thanked them for their contribution in the liberation of Rwanda, their active role in the campaign to stop the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi, contribution to national programs, the professionalisation of the RDF and participation in various military and international peace operations. 

"For these personal dedication, commitment and patriotism, we say thank you” he said.

The minister urged them to utilise the immense experience acquired in military service for the development of their families and the nation. 

"We urge you to remain responsible citizens by upholding true values of the institution that you served so dearly” he said.

The RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Nyamvumba, lauded the courage that characterized the officers during their service.

"You dedicated your lives to work for Rwanda’s security and peace, which was achieved; we will never forget your devotion and courage and this is a time to look back with admiration and look forward with anticipation” the CDS said. 

He underlined that the objective of retirement was a normal phase in a professional military aimed at ensuring continuity of the institution. It was the reason RDF officers and men who attain retirement age should retire and provide space for a young generation to carry on the mantle. 

Col Emmanuel Karemera who spoke on behalf of retiring officers thanked the RDF leadership for advice and enduring values in their journey of military service. He said that they were proud of their country, having served with honour and are retiring satisfied that the country was secure.