President awards top graduates at Rwanda military staff course ceremony

President Paul Kagame awarded the top three graduates of the 14th intake of the RDF Senior Command and Staff Course during a ceremony held Friday, June 12, at RDF Command and Staff College in Nyakinama, Musanze District. Lt Col Walter Kageruka of the Rwanda Defence Force placed first.

Lt Col Simon Ndungu Wamwea of the Kenya Defence Forces finished second, and Lt Col Patrick Nii Lante Anang of Ghana placed third.

All 108 graduates received the Passed Staff College qualification and a course certificate. Fifty-five officers also received a Master of Arts in Security Studies from the University of Rwanda. The officers represented the Rwanda Defence Force, Rwanda National Police, and 19 friendly countries.

The 46-week course was conducted in collaboration with the University of Rwanda and included strategic studies, operational planning, joint command exercises, and mission simulations. Kagame told the graduates they had arrived as experienced professionals and were leaving with broader knowledge, sharper strategic awareness, and greater responsibility.

He said the value of the connections made during the course cannot be overstated, noting that officers who trained together already possess an understanding that strengthens cooperation in operations and regional engagements.

Kagame identified courage, judgment, and purpose as qualities officers must cultivate themselves. He said courage enables a leader to act decisively despite uncertainty and competing pressures, while purpose for Rwanda is anchored in protecting its people and sovereignty while advancing national transformation.

He told the officers that leadership is defined by approach and values, not ability alone.