On Thursday, last week, the Rwanda National Police and its partners marked the Force’s 16th anniversary, a culmination of a week-long campaign that encompassed various aspects of law-enforcement. 

Over the years, the Police have redefined law-enforcement in Rwanda, from the old-fashioned way of coercion and intimidation, to education, involving citizens in policing matters (community policing) and winning over the people’s hearts and minds in the effort to ensure public safety.

And, the people have responded by embracing community policing and partaking in almost every effort to prevent crime.

Ordinary citizens across the country continue to provide important tips to the Police in their day-to-day operations, including in the fight against smuggling across porous borders, drug abuse, defilement, drink-driving, fraud, among others.

This demonstrates ownership of community policing efforts on the part of the citizens.

This is quite refreshing considering the alarming levels of hostility that existed between the country’s security forces and the public just over two decades ago.

Little wonder then that some citizens around the country have created time and pulled resources to build police stations in their own localities. It is as much a gesture to give back to their country as it is their way to express gratitude to a caring, pro-people police force.

Last week’s pre-anniversary campaign involved further sensitisation on the dangers of such substances as illegal drugs and banned local brew, children’s rights, traffic discipline, domestic violence, among others.

It is important that the education messages that continue to be put out emphasise the importance of community policing in building a safer, better Rwanda.

The spirit of a truly pro-people police institution should continue to inform RNP’s operations.