Friends, colleagues, and senior officials have paid heartfelt tribute to Lt Gen Innocent Kabandana, a senior Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) officer who passed away on Sunday, September 7.

Kabandana died of natural causes at the Rwanda Military Referral and Teaching Hospital according to the RDF statement.

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Among those who have paid tribute to him, Rwanda’s envoy to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana, described Kabandana as a trusted partner and friend during her early days as ambassador.

"As Defence Attaché at the Embassy in Washington, D.C., during my early days as an ambassador, Lt. Gen. Innocent Kabandana was more than just a colleague – he was a trusted partner and sounding board,” Mukantabana noted.

"His strategic mind, diplomatic finesse, and unwavering dedication to Rwanda embodied the very values of a Rwandan officer.”

She added that his "unrelenting pursuit of knowledge and growth” was always for the benefit of Rwanda, praising his devotion to both his country and his family.

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Rwanda&039;s Ambassador to Russia, Maj Gen Joseph Nzabamwita, also paid his tributes to Kabandana.

"Lt Gen Innocent Kabandana! Comrade and Brother, you are one of the best gallant RDF Officer who sacrificed his life to liberate and serve his country Rwanda," Nzabamwita wrote in a post on X.

"Gone too soon, but you have left Rwanda a better country. We shall always remember you as one of the finest RDF Officers. Fare thee well Comrade. Till we meet again."

Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary-General of La Francophonie, called Kabandana a man of integrity.

"Gen. Kabandana was known for his integrity, wisdom, and unwavering love, both for those close to him and for his country,” she said. "Those of us who lived and worked with him are deeply saddened by his sudden passing, but we find comfort in remembering the good name he leaves behind.”

Jonathan R. Beloff, a researcher of the African Great Lakes Region, offered one of the most personal tributes, recalling their first meeting during the closing ceremonies of Gacaca in 2012, when Kabandana sat quietly, "intensely watching the proceedings.”

"He never dismissed or trivialised any opportunity to help Rwandans or better understand his homeland,” Beloff wrote. "He continually challenged my perceptions and pushed me to become a better researcher and person. To me, he was a Renaissance man, always interested in a wide range of subjects.”

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Former Interior Minister Alfred Gasana described Kabandana’s career as one of service faithfully rendered:

"In honour of a life well lived and service faithfully rendered to our country, may you rest in eternal peace. Your sacrifice and dedication will never be forgotten.”

Sandrine Uwimbabazi Maziyateke, Director of Rwanda Community Abroad, called his passing "a tragic and heart-breaking loss.”

Fred Mufulukye, Director General of National Rehabilitation Service said Kabandana’s legacy would inspire future generations.

"We honour the life and service of Gen. Innocent Kabandana, a true Rwandan patriot. To his family and fellow patriots, we stand with you in this difficult time. May his legacy continue to inspire many young Rwandans, and may his soul RIP.”

Lt Gen Kabandana is survived by a wife and four children.