Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) welcomed a new cohort of soldiers into its ranks after they completed six months of basic military training.

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The recruits officially joined the force during a passing-out ceremony held on Thursday, July 30, at the Basic Military Training Centre (BMTC) Nasho in Kirehe District.

The event presided over by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Mubarakh Muganga was attended by RDF generals, senior and junior officers, as well as other members of the force.

The graduates showcased a range of military skills acquired during the six-month programme, including marksmanship and tactical drills, demonstrating their readiness to undertake operational duties.

Muganga welcomed the new recruits into the RDF and urged them to put the knowledge and skills acquired during training into practice as they safeguard Rwanda&039;s sovereignty and protect its citizens.

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He congratulated them for the resilience, commitment and determination they demonstrated throughout the demanding training.

He also reminded them that the values expected of an RDF soldier extend beyond military skills. He urged them to uphold Kinyarwanda, Rwanda&039;s culture, traditions, principles and values throughout their service.

He encouraged the recruits to remain vigilant and prepared to confront any threats to the country's security.

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Muganga also urged them to reject complacency, divisionism and rhetoric that promotes such tendencies. He further cautioned against negative behaviours, including excessive alcohol consumption and immoral conduct.

He reminded the new soldiers that completing basic military training marked only the beginning of their careers. Their professional development, he said, would continue through further training to enhance their knowledge and skills in line with the RDF&039;s evolving requirements.

He challenged them to put their training into practice, uphold the RDF's vision and mission, and contribute to building a professional, capable and disciplined force.

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The Chief of Defence Staff underscored the importance of discipline and adherence to the RDF's core values as the recruits integrate into their respective units and serve alongside fellow soldiers.

Muganga also commended the leadership of BMTC Nasho, particularly the instructors, for their unwavering dedication to developing the recruits' knowledge, skills and leadership qualities, saying their efforts had prepared the young soldiers to make an effective contribution to the defence of the country.