Biruta urges professionalism, discipline among RCS staff

Minister of Interior Vincent Biruta has called on senior leaders of the Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS) to strengthen supervision, uphold professionalism and enforce discipline among prison staff, saying these are essential to improving correctional, rehabilitation and reintegration services. Biruta made the remarks on Saturday, July 25, while closing a three-day retreat for senior RCS officials at the Rwanda Military Academy in Gako, Bugesera District. The retreat brought together RCS leaders to assess the institution's achievements, challenges and strategic priorities in strengthening correctional and rehabilitation services. It was held under the theme: Enhancing RCS Strategic Development for Effective Rehabilitation and Reintegration. ALSO READ: RCS gets over 140 correctional officers Biruta acknowledged the progress made by RCS in transforming correctional services but stressed that maintaining discipline and integrity among staff remains a key responsibility of the institution's leadership. His remarks come as RCS continues efforts to reposition correctional facilities as centres for rehabilitation, skills development and successful reintegration of inmates into society. Biruta cited cases involving former RCS personnel who engaged in misconduct, including receiving bribes and facilitating the entry of prohibited items into correctional facilities, warning that such behaviour undermines the institution's mission. As RCS officials meet, the issue of upholding discipline should be given the highest priority, he said. He noted that more than 400 former RCS personnel have been dismissed over the years because of misconduct, underscoring the need for stronger oversight and accountability. I remind you that it is unacceptable to tolerate such actions and behaviours, Biruta added. The minister said senior officials have a responsibility to foster a culture of accountability and ensure that correctional officers understand that their role extends beyond guarding inmates to supporting their rehabilitation and successful reintegration into their communities. Expanding rehabilitation programmes Biruta commended RCS for expanding Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes in correctional facilities, saying the skills acquired by inmates increase their chances of securing employment or creating sustainable livelihoods after completing their sentences. He also praised rehabilitation programmes implemented by RCS in partnership with other institutions, which focus on civic education, mental health, conflict resolution and behaviour change. The minister particularly highlighted specialised reintegration programmes developed jointly with the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement for inmates convicted of crimes related to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. These courses are intended to help them better understand history, come to terms with themselves, seek forgiveness, and embrace the values of unity, reconciliation and resilience, he said. This is particularly important in strengthening the unity of Rwandans and ensuring that our country never relives the tragic history it experienced. According to Biruta, more than 3,500 inmates have completed the reintegration programme and received certificates after successfully participating in the courses. ALSO READ: Over 600 Genocide convicts complete reintegration programme ahead of release Beyond rehabilitation, the minister said the government will continue supporting RCS to address challenges affecting the institution, including infrastructure gaps, staffing needs and shortages of equipment. He urged RCS leaders to implement the resolutions adopted during the retreat, saying the discussions should translate into practical measures that improve service delivery and strengthen the institution. RCS spokesperson CSP Hillary Sengabo said the retreat provided an opportunity for the institution's leadership to assess its progress, reflect on existing challenges and chart priorities for the future. He said participants adopted 48 resolutions aimed at strengthening institutional management, improving the administration of correctional facilities, and enhancing rehabilitation and reintegration services for inmates.

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Biruta urges professionalism, discipline among RCS staff