President of the Central African Republic, Faustin-Archange Touadéra, has been sworn in for a new term and praised the contribution of Rwanda Defence Force in restoring peace and security in the country.
The inauguration ceremony took place on March 30, 2026, and was attended by Justin Nsengiyumva, who represented Paul Kagame.
Several African leaders were also present, including Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema and Azali Assoumani, alongside representatives from various governments.
The ceremony was also attended by Christophe Bazivamo, who participated at the invitation of the ruling Mouvement Cœurs Unis party. MCU and Rwandan Patriotic Front maintain strong ties focused on promoting people-centered governance.
In his address, President Touadéra emphasized that Rwanda has been a close partner to the Central African Republic, particularly during critical moments such as elections when Rwandan troops played a significant role in maintaining security for citizens and government institutions.
“Today before all of you, I want to honor our security forces, those of United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic, and troops from our friendly countries including Rwanda and Russia. These men and women risk their lives every day to protect our nation,” Touadéra said.
On several occasions, Touadéra has also expressed special appreciation to President Kagame for Rwanda’s cooperation and commitment in helping restore peace and stability in the Central African Republic.
Touadéra was first elected president in 2016 and re-elected in 2020, and he is now beginning his third term leading the country.
Rwanda and the Central African Republic maintain strong bilateral relations in areas such as security, economic cooperation, governance, mining and innovation.
Since 2014, Rwandan soldiers and police officers have been part of the UN peacekeeping mission in CAR, known as MINUSCA.
Their duties include protecting civilians and their property, safeguarding senior government officials including President Touadéra, securing UN personnel and equipment, and protecting key infrastructure such as Bangui M’Poko International Airport.
Currently, around 1,200 Rwandan special forces troops are deployed in the country. Their responsibilities include maintaining security in the capital Bangui and surrounding areas, ensuring that daily activities of citizens continue in peace.
They are also tasked with securing the presidential residence located in Damara, in the Ombella-M’Poko prefecture.
President Touadéra has repeatedly awarded medals to Rwandan soldiers and police officers in recognition of their professionalism and dedication in the peacekeeping mission.
