On Friday, August 30, the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) officially retired 1,167 personnel, including Gen. Jean-Bosco Kazura, the former Chief of Defence Staff, and four Brigadier Generals. The Brigadier Generals—John Bagabo, John Bosco Rutikanga, Johnson Hodari, and Firmin Bayingana—were among those who concluded their service.
In addition to these high-ranking officers, 170 senior officers and 992 soldiers of various ranks were also retired. This move comes as part of a regular process where personnel retire after reaching the mandatory retirement age or upon the expiry of their service contracts.
Gen. Kazura’s military career spanned decades, with his most recent role being the Chief of Defence Staff, a position he held from November 2019 until June 2023.
He previously held various key military roles both in Rwanda and elsewhere, including serving as head of the Rwanda Military Academy in Nyakinama, military advisor to the President, Deputy Force Commander of the African Union Mission in Darfur, Sudan, and Force Commander of the United Nations Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).
Brig Gen John Bagabo, a prominent figure in military justice, served as President of the Military High Court.
He has also served as a Commissioner in the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission.
Brig Gen John Bosco Rutikanga, among others, served as the commander of the 204th Brigade. He became a Brigadier General in 2018.
Brig Gen Johnson Hodari held command positions in Bugesera, Ngoma, and Kirehe districts and served as the 305th Brigade that covered Musanze District and parts of Burera District.
Speaking at a send-off ceremony for the General Officers, senior officers and other the other soldiers at the RDF Headquarters in Kimihurura, Kigali, the Minister of Defence Juvenal Marizamunda, who represented the Commander-In-Chief, President Paul Kagame, expressed the country’s gratitude for their service, including roles in the liberation struggle.
“I encourage you to uphold the same dedication you have shown throughout the years,” an RDF statement quoted Marizamunda as saying.
He noted that younger RDF soldiers have learned valuable lessons from their examples.
RDF Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Mubarakh Muganga emphasised the significance of the milestone, marking the end of long and distinguished military careers.
“Behind each of our historical successes have been your sacrifices, dedication, and commitment to defending our country,” he said, acknowledging their contribution toward strengthening the RDF.
Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Brig Gen John Bagabo expressed gratitude to President Kagame for his leadership and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the RDF in the future.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates to the retirees, recognising their dedicated service to the nation.
