On September 24, Inspector General of Police Felix Namuhoranye hosted Commissioner of Police Ted Barbe from Seychelles at the Rwanda National Police General Headquarters in Kigali. This important meeting aimed to enhance the bilateral cooperation that has been developing between the two nations since they signed a law enforcement cooperation agreement in June of last year.
In a complementary engagement, General Mubarakh Muganga, Chief of Defence Staff of the Rwanda Defence Force, also met with Brigadier Michael Rosette from the Seychelles People’s Defence Forces. Their discussions were centered on strengthening defense cooperation and enhancing operational capabilities to address emerging security challenges.
During the meeting, Namuhoranye highlighted the significance of this visit as a milestone in the partnership journey, emphasizing the value of mutual learning and experience sharing. “This collaboration provides an opportunity to share insights and establish sustainable strategies for addressing the security needs of both our countries and the continent at large,” he stated. He reinforced Rwanda’s commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships, both regionally and internationally, and assured that the Rwanda National Police is ready to be a reliable partner moving forward.
Commissioner Barbe praised Rwanda’s advancements in policing and security, recognizing the unique challenges faced in Seychelles, particularly concerning drug trafficking and maritime security. “Policing in Seychelles is complex, as we have more waters to patrol than land. Last year, we intercepted over a tonne of narcotics, which underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in information sharing and operational support,” he explained.
Expressing his satisfaction with the partnership, Barbe noted that his country has chosen Rwanda as a key ally for collaboration and experience exchange. He indicated a desire to expand their joint efforts into various areas of interest, including community policing, forensic investigations, and the fight against financial crimes.
To facilitate the implementation of their cooperation agreement, both parties agreed to establish a joint team. Over the next four days, Barbe and his delegation will tour several units of the Rwanda National Police, including training centers, operational units, and border security operations, aiming to deepen their partnership and enhance their collective capabilities in addressing security challenges. This collaborative approach reflects a shared commitment to improving safety and security in both nations and fostering a secure environment in the region.