Armed and Security Forces mark two years of JOC existence

Minister of Defense James Kabarebe makes a point(Photo: RNP Media Center)

Armed and security forces yesterday celebrated two years since the establishment of Joint Operation Center (JOC). The event coincided with the official inauguration of a new JOC facility presided over by the Minister for Defense General James Kabarebe and his Internal Security counterpart Musa Fazil Harelimana.

The event was also graced by Chief of Defense Staff Lt. General Charles Kayonga, Inspector General of Police Emmanuel K. Gasana, Commissioner General for Rwanda Correctional Services Paul Rwarakabije as well as high ranking armed and security officers.

Participant after the inauguration of the new JOC facility(Photo: RNP Media Center)

Located at Rwanda National Police headquarters in Kacyiru, JOC was established to consolidate National Security mechanisms during threats of grenade attacks through coordinated information sharing approach.  The facility is made up of staff from Rwanda Defense Forces, Rwanda National Police, National Intelligence and Security Service and Rwanda Correctional Services.

Minister Kabarebe hailed the direct role JOC has played in National security initiatives. He urged continued collaboration of all armed and security forces to maintain National security. “The establishment of JOC is part of homegrown solutions to security challenges faced by the country and that it has enabled us to do so much from so little,” Minister Kabarebe observed.

He explained the decision to have the facility located at Police headquarters was reached given the leading role in internal security.

Apart from its enormous contribution towards National security JOC has promoted human security.  Joint forces have participated in government’s development programs such as construction of the nine and twelve year basic education classrooms, eradication of grass thatched houses and in environmental protection among others.

Addressing media with his RDF counterpart Major Rene Ngendahimana, RNP spokesperson Theos Badege said that JOC’s achievements should instill public confidence about armed and security forces endeavor to provide safe environment.

The two spokespersons called for public continued cooperation with armed and security forces by providing timely information that would help track and prevent crimes. JOC activities have been decentralized to the grassroots levels to ensure that everyone contributes in National security initiatives.  

National security has and continues to be the cornerstone of Rwanda’s recovery, social economic development and sustainable peace.