Gishari, Rwamagana – A new cohort of security personnel for the District Administration Security Support Organ (DASSO) successfully completed their training today in a ceremony held at the Police Training School in Gishari, Rwamagana. 

The ceremony was presided over by the Minister of Local Government, Hon. Dominique Habimana, and was attended by the leaders of the districts set to receive the new officers, including Eastern Province Governor and the District Mayors.

Security as the Foundation for Development

In his address to the graduates, Minister Habimana stressed that security is the vital foundation upon which good governance and the socio-economic development of citizens are built.

“Because of the value of security, everything needed to safeguard it is being done, and the necessary cost, however great, is being allocated, including trainings such as this one,” the Minister stated.

He emphasized that DASSO's responsibilities are fundamental to both local government institutions and the citizens they serve, demanding a high level of commitment and dedication from the graduates.

A Broad Mandate: Beyond Traditional Security

Minister Habimana urged the new DASSO personnel to adopt a comprehensive view of security that extends beyond traditional law enforcement. He highlighted that their role must include tackling issues that negatively impact the social welfare and quality of life of citizens, such as child vagrancy, homelessness and school drop-out, poor service delivery, theft and crime, child labor, lack of hygiene and cleanliness.

“Security must be looked at in a broader sense, including everything that can undermine the well-being of the citizens... and you must play a part in preventing all of these issues,” he added.

Finally, he reminded the officers of their crucial duty to monitor and ensure that hygiene is maintained everywhere—in their personal appearance, in citizens’ homes, markets, offices, schools, health centers, eating establishments, and all public spaces.

The deployment of this new batch of DASSO personnel is expected to significantly strengthen the capacity of local authorities to ensure public safety and effective policy implementation at the grassroots level in the 13 benefiting districts. This ninth intake of graduates will immediately assume responsibilities, reinforcing security and governance in the districts across the country.

End.