HUYE -The National Police force has been commended for its exemplary work of protecting citizens and their property since its inception ten years ago. 

Speaking during a ceremony to inaugurate activities to celebrate the milestone, Jeanne Izabiliza, the Southern Province’s Executive Secretary said that Police vigilance has seen a drop in crime, and most specifically, a reduction in road accidents in the country. 

She said that the introduction of community policing has empowered local communities to find viable solutions to security threats in their respective localities. 

"The new procedure of acquiring driving permits has also come as a relief to many, it is more transparent and less hectic,” said Izabiliza.  

The Provincial official noted that the institution’s exemplary conduct has also been recognized by the international community, which is why Rwanda Police has a presence places in several countries the world over.

Chief Supt Faustin Ntirushwa, the Regional Police Commander, urged the Police to deliver better service to the community by avoiding corruption, incompetence and any other behaviour that can tarnish the image of the force. 

He said that one of the greatest achievements by RNP over the last ten years is the considerable decrease of road accidents.  

"In the last two years, road accidents have reduced by 8 percent while circulation has increased threefold. This is a great achievement we have to enjoy,” said Ntirushwa. 

Present at the function were the National University of Rwanda’s past and present beauty queens; Carine Rusaro and Viviane Umutoni respectively. 

On her part Rusaro, Miss Campus 2007 called upon local citizens to partner with the Police in ensuring road safety. 

"Throughout the Road Safety Week, we call upon all the people in the Province, especially the youth, to join the Police in ensuring that our roads are safe,” she said. 

Activities to mark the 10th anniversary will include; traffic week, environmental protection campaign, community policing campaign, medical services, sports activities and conferences on gender based violence, and child abuse.

Celebrations are expected to come to a close on June 16th the date at which the force was instituted.

Ends