Rwandan President Paul Kagame has approved the retirement of nine senior generals, signaling a major shift in the country’s military leadership. The announcement was made public in a Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) press release dated July 29, 2025.
Among the retirees are Major-Generals Andrew Kagame and Wilson Gumisiriza, both of whom held key command roles. Kagame led the RDF’s 1st Division, while Gumisiriza commanded the Mechanised Infantry Division.
Maj Gen Gumisiriza also represented the retired officers at an official send-off ceremony held in Kigali, marking their service and contributions to the RDF.
Other notable generals include Brig Gen Demali, who previously served as Rwanda’s Defence Attaché to Kenya and was Chief of Staff of the Air Force.
Brig Gen Muziraguharara was recognized for his leadership at Horizon Group and prior service in the National Intelligence and Security Service as Director General for Finance and Administration.
Brig Gen Rwigema commanded RDF reserve forces in the Western Province, while Brig Gen Karangwa led RDF troops in a peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic.
The retirement list includes 120 senior officers, 26 junior officers, and 927 enlisted personnel, bringing the total number of retirees to 1,085.
The move is seen as an effort to rejuvenate the military, creating space for promotions and integrating younger, emerging officers into leadership roles.
No immediate replacements were announced by the RDF, leaving the next phase of leadership transition yet to be detailed.
