The graduation ceremony for Intake 08 was presided over on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, by the RDF Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General MK Mubarakh, at the Basic Military Training Centre (BMTC) in Nasho, Kirehe District.

Addressing the graduates, Gen Mubarakh congratulated them on completing the demanding course and delivered a message from President Paul Kagame, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the RDF.

In his message, President Kagame commended the dedication of the RDF and other security organs, extending special appreciation to the graduating troops. He underscored that continuous professional training remains the foundation of the RDF's excellence and effectiveness.

Gen Mubarakh said the advanced training equips soldiers with the skills required to carry out their duties and respond effectively to evolving security threats. He noted that the programme not only strengthened the troops' operational and tactical competencies but also reinforced the discipline and values that underpin the professionalism of the Rwanda Defence Force.

He further highlighted that beyond technical and tactical skills, the course instilled a strong sense of military discipline and fundamental values that guide soldiers in upholding RDF standards, maintaining professionalism, and performing duties with integrity.

The CDS urged the troops to apply both their newly acquired operational knowledge and the strict discipline developed throughout the training in the execution of their daily responsibilities.