Nyagatare residents urged to step up crime prevention

By The Inspirer.

The Minister of Internal Security, Dr Vincent Biruta, has called on residents of Nyagatare District to play an active role in preventing and combating crime by promoting positive values and a mindset that supports national development.

Biruta made the remarks on Monday while officially launching community outreach activities by the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and Rwanda National Police (RNP) aimed at improving citizens’ welfare and development.

He said many of the activities planned in Nyagatare will focus on public awareness campaigns designed to help residents progress socially and economically through mindset change and a stronger sense of responsibility toward nation-building.

In this regard, the minister urged citizens to become key partners in preventing and reporting crimes.

“We ask for your active role in fighting crime. Crime begins in the mind, so we want you to cultivate a healthy mindset free from criminal thoughts,” he said.

Biruta emphasized that crime prevention should start at the village level, noting that those who commit crimes often live within the same communities as their victims.

“Crime prevention should begin in the village. Those who commit crimes live among us. They are our neighbours; they return to the same homes and communities before carrying out their criminal intentions. As citizens, it is our responsibility to report suspicious activities because we often notice them before anyone else,” he added.

He also encouraged residents to work together to safeguard security, describing it as the foundation of development.

“Let us work together to protect our security because it is the basis of development. These activities will run for three months, and by July 4 we hope to see clear progress in strengthening community security,” Biruta said.

The Mayor of Nyagatare District, Henry Kakwoza, commended the country’s leadership, as well as the security organs, for their continued contribution to improving the livelihoods of citizens.

He noted that many residents benefited from free medical services during similar activities held last year, while security forces also helped build 16 houses for vulnerable families in the district.

“We appreciate how these institutions continue to support our residents. Families that received houses now have decent shelter, and many citizens benefited from medical services provided during previous outreach programmes,” Kakwoza said.

Some residents of Rwempasha Sector who spoke to Imvaho Nshya welcomed the initiative and said they were ready to cooperate with security institutions.

Steven Byaruhanga, a resident of the sector, said the community was pleased that the activities had been launched in their area.

“We are happy that soldiers and police officers have chosen to start these activities here. We will cooperate with them in the programmes they introduce and follow their guidance,” he said.

The joint outreach activities by RDF and RNP are expected to run for three months and will conclude during celebrations marking the 32nd Liberation Day on July 4, 2026.