Rwanda has launched its first-ever Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Challenge, bringing together ten elite police teams from across Eastern Africa to enhance security collaboration and operational readiness.
The two-day tactical event, which kicked off at the Counter Terrorism Training Centre in Mayange, Bugesera District, aims to bolster the region’s response capabilities to critical security threats. Teams from eight African nations—Rwanda, Djibouti, Kenya, Seychelles, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda—are taking part in this prestigious challenge, showcasing their skills in real-world scenarios.
This competition is part of the ongoing 26th Eastern Africa Police Chiefs Cooperation Organization (EAPCCO) Annual General Meeting in Kigali.
During the opening ceremony, Deputy Inspector General of Police Jeanne Chantal Ujeneze highlighted the event’s significance in promoting cooperation among security agencies in Eastern Africa. “This is more than just a competition; it represents our collective commitment to ensuring the safety of our citizens and to deepening cooperation in the fight against transnational crime and terrorism,” Ujeneze said.
She expressed appreciation for the countries participating in the inaugural SWAT Challenge, urging the teams to maintain the high standards of professionalism that the competition embodies.
Ujeneze also celebrated the inclusion of female special forces teams, underscoring the important role of women in advancing peace, security, and sustainable development across the continent.
“The SWAT Challenge is not only about competition,” Ujeneze added. “It’s a chance to exchange knowledge, learn from one another, and forge stronger relationships among our law enforcement agencies. These events foster collaboration, trust, and a spirit of unity that will enhance our collective operational effectiveness.”
Over the course of the next two days, the elite teams will face three main challenges: tactical and rescue operations, an assault event to test their ability to perform under pressure, and an obstacle course that assesses physical endurance and agility.
This historic event underscores the growing commitment of African nations to work together to address emerging security threats, with an emphasis on regional collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and skill development.