More than 11,000 patients from across the country turned up to receive free dental care from Rwanda Defense Forces during their annual community outreach activity, dubbed Army week.

According to a report of the activities, the second most sought after service was surgery 1,383 from various ailments, 1,269 from patients in need of ear, nose and throat treatment and 456 in ophthalmology (eye treatment).

Other activities conducted during the week included the construction of 1,548 houses for the needy and the fixing or construction of 21 bridges.

According to the Army spokesperson, Lt. Col. Jules Rutaremara, the, activities were in line with the ethos of the Rwandan military.

"Our major role is security in the country and protecting its sovereignty, but if a citizen is hungry or sick, it affects security,” Rutaremara said.

Others activities included rehabilitating seven water points which will serve 45,000 people and the donation of 20 cows to the poor families.

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