Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) has evolved over time. It has now positioned itself as one of the most reliable contributors to the global and regional peacekeeping initiatives.

Consequently, it is one of the major contributors under the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations and other forms of peacekeeping initiatives in Africa.

From its early days as a liberation force, the RDF incorporated peacekeeping elements with its officer corps and ranks.

For instance Major General Karenzi Karake also known as ‘Afande KK’ led the RPA/RPF‘s team to the African Union Neutral Military Observer Group (UNMOG) and to the United Nations Assistance Mission in Rwanda (UNAMIR) before the RPF/A forces stopped the Genocide.

The RDF has maintained security within the country and this has positioned Rwanda among the safest countries not only in Africa but in the whole world.

Over time, the RDF has transformed itself into a professional military force with responsibility of ensuring stability within the region.

This has been manifested in its quick and efficient intervention in Darfur and in Somalia through the training of the Somali Army.

As a matter of policy, RDF’s participation in peacekeeping operations is mainly motivated by the need to take its responsibility as an active member of the international community.

Notably is that the UN Security Council requested Rwanda to provide a candidate to fill the position of overall military commander of UNAMID.

This has actually proved that the world has developed trust in the RDF.

In return, the RDF considers its involvement in peacekeeping operations not limited to the deployment of troops but also provide facilities or specialist support like the case with the Somali troops.

Ends