THE Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) has demobilised 627 military personnel from the army.

15 officers were among those demobilized, said RDF Spokesman Maj. Jill Rutaremara on Friday.

"This is phase 14B and phase 14C is expected to be carried out at the end of March and will be the last demobilisation as agreed between the World Bank and the Government,” Rutaremara explained. The demobilisation process started in 1997 and, according Rutaremara, is in line with the government’s policy of professionalising and modernising the army.

Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission chairman, Jean Sayinzoga said yesterday about 60,000 RDF and Ex-FAR soldiers had so far been demobilised. Rutaremara has said previously that the Government wants to have a small but credible, effective and well-equipped force.
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