Traditionally, the Reserve Force was composed of individuals who had served as regular soldiers and reached retirement age, allowing them to continue contributing to national security for a specified period before full retirement.

However, the RDF has now introduced two additional pathways for entry into the Reserve Force. The first pathway is designed for young people who meet certain criteria, while the second targets individuals with specialized skills, regardless of age.

Recruited youth will serve in the Reserve Force, ready to be called upon for military duties as needed. The RDF has invited interested young people to register for entry into the Reserve Force, with selected candidates undergoing six months of training at at Gabiro Combat Training Center.

Eligible candidates include those who have completed at least secondary education, with varying age limits depending on their level of education. Secondary school graduates must be no older than 25 years, IPRC graduates no older than 26 years, and bachelor’s degree holders no older than 28 years.

Upon completing their training, recruits will be commissioned with the rank of ’Private’ and will have opportunities for promotion based on military service regulations.

Youth joining the RDF through the Reserve Force will maintain the flexibility to combine this role with civilian employment, as they will only be called upon for military duties when necessary.

While on military duty, they will be subject to military law, and upon returning to civilian life, they will be governed by civilian laws. During their military service, they will receive a salary and benefits equivalent to those of regular soldiers of the same rank.

No connection with regional insecurity

In a press briefing held on Friday, August 16, 2024, RDF leadership clarified the purpose of this initiative. The briefing, attended by RDF Spokesperson Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga and Col Lambert Sendegeya, in charge of RDF personnel, emphasized that this recruitment effort is not related to recent regional security issues.

Col Sendegeya highlighted that the decision is aimed at providing opportunities for young people who wish to contribute to national security without necessarily joining the regular forces. "The concept of the Reserve Force is not new in Rwandan society. It allows ordinary citizens to support soldiers in protecting the country’s sovereignty," he explained.

He further elaborated, "These responsibilities require the RDF to continually strengthen its capabilities to address current and future security challenges. This is why we plan to recruit capable and willing youth into the Reserve Force, who can be mobilized when needed to support regular soldiers."

Addressing questions from journalists regarding any connection between this decision and regional security concerns, Brig Gen Rwivanga stated unequivocally that there is no link.

"This initiative is about enhancing the professionalism of our military. We already have a well-prepared force to protect the country’s sovereignty. This recruitment offers an opportunity for those who want to join the military while continuing their civilian careers. It reflects a professional military force [...] The regional security issues have nothing to do with this recruitment."

Brig Gen Rwivanga also noted that those joining the Reserve Force due to their specialized skills will not be subject to an age limit. Additionally, Rwandans living abroad with specialized knowledge will have the opportunity to join this service and be called upon to serve when needed.

RDF Spokesperson Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga (left) and Col Lambert Sendegeya, in charge of RDF personnel at the press briefing.

Col Sendegeya highlighted that the decision is aimed at providing opportunities for young people who wish to contribute to national security without necessarily joining the regular forces.

Brig. Gen. Rwivanga said that joining the Reserve Force due to their specialized skills will not be subject to an age limit.