Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 26th Eastern Africa Police Chiefs Cooperation Organization (EAPCCO) Annual General Meeting in Kigali on Friday, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for law enforcement agencies to adapt to digital-age crimes and transnational security challenges.
Dr. Ngirente commended EAPCCO member states for their continued collaboration and urged police chiefs to align their strategies with technological advancements and emerging crime trends.
'Today, more than ever, the necessity to cooperate and assist each other is imperative. I urge you to put more effort into aligning policing strategies with the ever-changing nature of crime driven by digital and technological advancements.,' PM Ngirente stated.
He also stressed the importance of investing in police training and capacity building to equip officers with the skills needed to tackle cybercrime, terrorism, and organized crime.
The 26th EAPCCO AGM, which opened on Wednesday under the theme 'Strengthening Regional Law Enforcement Cooperation to Counter Terrorism, Transnational Organized, and Emerging Crimes,' brought together police chiefs and security experts from across Eastern Africa.
The meeting, opened by Rwanda's Minister of Interior Dr. Vincent Biruta, focused on strengthening intelligence-sharing mechanisms and enhancing regional security coordination.
Founded in 1998 in Kampala, Uganda, EAPCCO was established as a regional response to rising transnational and organized crimes affecting Eastern Africa. With 14 member states, including Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the organization promotes cooperation among law enforcement agencies to combat common security threats.
Prime Minister Ngirente highlighted the significance of joint exercises such as the recently introduced Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) challenge, which took place in Rwanda during the summit.
He praised EAPCCO's initiatives, including joint field training exercises, games, and sports, as vital in fostering cooperation among regional security forces.
'These commendable initiatives should be upheld to strengthen bonds of cooperation between law enforcement agencies in our region,' he remarked.
In his parting shot, PM Ngirente urged security leaders to renew their commitment to working together, ensuring that regional safety remains a priority.
'I call upon all of you to renew your dedication to working across borders and building a future where safety is a reality for the people you serve,' he said.
At the conclusion of the meeting, it was announced that South Sudan will host the 27th EAPCCO AGM, while Ethiopia will host the 5th edition of the EAPCCO Games.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
