Currently, Lt Nkurikiyineza is deployed in the Central African Republic (CAR) as one of the security personnel assigned to protect President Faustin-Archange Touadéra.
Rwandan troops, deployed under the United Nations peacekeeping mission in CAR, are tasked with protecting the President and the First Lady, as well as securing key national infrastructure, including M'Poko International Airport.
Lt Nkurikiyineza explains that his decision to join the military was influenced by his older siblings, who encouraged him, along with his deep love for his country and desire to defend it as a soldier.
His dedication led him to be assigned to a UN peacekeeping mission. For over 20 years, Rwandan troops have actively contributed to such missions. Currently, besides CAR, they are also deployed in South Sudan.
'I take great pride in knowing that our country is at the forefront of restoring peace in foreign nations, especially here in the Central African Republic. It is an honor for me and my country to ensure that others do not suffer what we once endured when the world abandoned us,' he said.
In Bangui, at the Palais de la Renaissance, the Presidential Palace, Rwandan soldiers are highly visible. From the entrance to the innermost security perimeters, they work alongside Central African forces to ensure the President's safety.
Lt Nkurikiyineza is positioned close to President Touadéra, ensuring that no threat comes near him.
'We operate based on the President's schedule. Nearly 24 hours a day, we are with himâ€"whether at his office, during his visits, or at his residence,' he explained.
This job is demanding, but those who undertake it do so with dedication. Their rigorous training prepares them to handle any challenges that arise.
'I am always positioned directly behind him as his second security officer. There is another Rwandan soldier I work closely with. When I was first assigned this duty, I thought it would be extremely difficult, but thanks to the training we received, we were well-prepared,' he added.
Lt Yvonne Mutesi has had a similar journey. She joined the military in 2016, completed her basic training, and later graduated from the Cadet Officer Course in 2023.
As part of the Rwandan contingent in the UN mission, her primary role is to protect the First Lady of the Central African Republic, Tina Marguerite Touadéra.
She begins her day at 5 a.m., preparing for work. Her daily schedule depends on the First Lady's agenda, which she must anticipate and be ready for in advance.
Protecting a Head of State is a high-security responsibility that demands constant vigilance, commitment, and absolute readiness to prevent any threats.
'My work schedule is never the same. It depends on the First Lady's activities, but regardless, I must always be at work before she wakes up or prepares for her day. I ensure everything is in place even before she informs me of her schedule,' Lt Mutesi said.
She has never encountered any challenges in her role due to being a woman. Instead, she believes her military training and confidence in her capabilities enable her to perform at the same level as her male counterparts.
'I have faced no challenges. We adapt to the culture of the people we work with, respecting their traditions while remaining professional. Thanks to the training we receive, there are no obstacles,' she said.
She encourages young women to serve their country, emphasizing that military service is not as difficult as some may think and that it brings immense pride.
'My advice to young women is to step up and serve their country. There is nothing too difficult, and it is a source of great honor,' she added.
Lt Marie Ingabire, also assigned to protect the First Lady, echoed this sentiment, urging more young women to consider military service.
'We are proof that women can do this job. I encourage other young women to join and contribute to our country,' she said.
Rwandan troops have been protecting CAR's leaders since 2014, having initially been assigned to safeguard former President Catherine Samba-Panza and continuing with President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, who took office in March 2016.
IGIHE
