Rwanda to Deploy 460 Police Officers to Central African Republic for UN Peacekeeping Mission

Rwanda is set to deploy 460 police officers to the Central African Republic (CAR) for a one-year mission under the UN MINUSCA (Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic) starting on Saturday, April 20, 2024. The deployment will consist of three contingents: Formed Police Unit Two (FPU-2) of 180 officers, Formed Police Unit One (FPU-1) of 140 officers, and the Protection Support Unit (PSU) of 140 officers.

The officers will be stationed in Kaga Bandoro and the capital Bangui, and will be tasked with public order management, protection of civilians, delivery of humanitarian assistance, escort duties, and protection of UN facilities and VIPs. The FPUs will specialize in public order management, protection of civilians, delivery of humanitarian assistance, escort duties, and protection of UN facilities, while the PSU will undertake special duties such as protection for VIPs.

On Friday, March 19, 2024, the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) Vincent Sano briefed the officers preparing for deployment. "Prioritize your duties, remain vigilant, and apply the training you have received to effectively carry out your responsibilities," DIGP Sano urged the officers. He emphasized that they are representing Rwanda and must uphold the values and professionalism of the Rwanda National Police.

Rwanda has been serving in CAR since 2014, and the new contingents are expected to continue to raise the Rwandan flag high. Last month, the United Nations decorated 320 Rwandan Police peacekeepers in the Central African Republic in recognition of their sacrifice and contribution to peace, stability, and protection of civilians in the host country. Rwanda currently has four police contingents deployed to the MINUSCA mission, totaling 500 officers.

Why this matters: Rwanda's deployment of police officers to the Central African Republic demonstrates its continued commitment to regional security and stability. As a significant contributor to UN peacekeeping operations, Rwanda plays a vital role in protecting civilians, supporting the political process, and restoring state authority in conflict-affected areas.

The deployment is part of Rwanda's increasing involvement in regional conflicts, despite Western countries providing billions in aid to Rwanda since the genocide and holding it up as a model of development. Rwanda denies supporting M23 rebels in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo but has been accused of deploying troops, providing arms, and training the rebels. The conflict in eastern Congo has reached a peak not seen in a decade, raising the prospect of a wider war between Rwanda and the DRC.

Key Takeaways

• Rwanda to deploy 460 police officers to CAR for 1-year UN peacekeeping mission starting 2024.
• Officers to be stationed in Kaga Bandoro and Bangui, tasked with public order, civilian protection, etc.
• Rwanda has served in CAR since 2014, with 500 officers currently deployed in 4 contingents.
• Deployment demonstrates Rwanda's commitment to regional security and stability in Africa.
• Rwanda accused of supporting M23 rebels in DRC, raising prospect of wider war with DRC.