The Minister of Local Government, Patrice Mugenzi, and the Minister of State in Charge of Social Affairs, Marie Solange Kayisire, joined citizens across the country to mark the official closure of the Defense and Security Citizen Outreach Programme 2025, commending its significant role in promoting citizen well-being and inclusive development.

The three-month outreach programme concluded on July 3rd with events held simultaneously across different districts. Throughout the outreach, the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), Rwanda National Police (RNP), and other security organs collaborated with local authorities and communities to provide essential services and inaugurate various infrastructure projects. These included fully furnished homes for vulnerable genocide survivors, feeder roads, solar power installations, and clean water supply systems.

The programme was held under the theme: “Rwanda Citizens with the Defence and Security Organs Celebrate Kwibohora31 and 25 Years of Partnership with the RNP.”

Presiding over the national closing ceremony in Nyanza District, Minister Mugenzi applauded the collaborative spirit demonstrated during the initiative.

“Over the past three months, in partnership with the military, police, local government, and the people, eight fully furnished homes have been constructed for vulnerable genocide survivors here in Nyanza,” he said.

“These are more than just buildings. They represent dignity, trust, and a shared commitment to inclusive development as championed by His Excellency Paul Kagame, President of the Republic and Commander-in-Chief.”

Minister Mugenzi emphasized that the programme exemplifies the evolving role of security organs—not just as guardians of peace, but also as agents of national transformation and socio-economic progress.

In Karongi District, Minister Kayisire officiated the closing ceremony where she inaugurated newly built houses for vulnerable genocide survivors.

She highlighted the importance of sustaining collaboration between citizens and institutions for national development.

“Security is not merely the absence of conflict. It encompasses dignity, opportunity, and trust for every Rwandan. Let us uphold and safeguard this culture of partnership. It is our shared responsibility as leaders, partners, and citizens to nurture this legacy for generations to come.”

The occasion also marked the closure of the 5th East African Community Civil-Military Cooperation Week (EAC-CIMIC), held from June 29 to July 3, 2025, bringing together military personnel from Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The regional exercise aimed to strengthen cooperation among EAC partner states while supporting community development activities.