His passing deeply saddened many who knew him, with tributes describing him as a man of integrity, humanity, and unwavering dedication to duty.
In a message shared on X, Rwanda's Ambassador to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana, remembered him as 'a truly remarkable individual.' She wrote:
'Today marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in the life of Lt Gen Innocent Kabandana. I feel deeply saddened to lose a friend, yet I'm grateful for the time we shared.'
Recalling his role as Defence Attaché in Washington, D.C., she said: 'During my early days as ambassador, he was more than just a colleague â€" he was a trusted partner and sounding board. His strategic mind, diplomatic finesse, and unwavering dedication to Rwanda embodied the very values of a Rwandan officer.'
She also praised his unrelenting pursuit of knowledge and growth, all for the benefit of Rwanda.
Amb. Mukantabana concluded that his legacy lives on through his wife Sabine and their childrenâ€"Monia, Brave, Brandon, and Noriaâ€"'who have grown into fantastic individuals.'
The Secretary General of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), Louise Mushikiwabo, also expressed her sorrow, saying: 'Gen Kabandana was known for his integrity, wisdom, and boundless love for his family and for his country. Those of us who lived and worked with him are deeply saddened by his sudden passing, but the legacy he leaves behind on this earth is a source of comfort.'
A lifetime of service
Lt Gen Kabandana joined the Rwandan Patriotic Army in 1990, playing a crucial role in the liberation of Rwanda and in halting the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Throughout his career, he gained extensive experience in operations and leadership. He served as Defence Attaché in Washington, D.C., Chief Instructor at the Rwanda Military Academy in Gako, and Deputy Force Commander in the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
Within the RDF, he held senior positions including Head of Logistics, Commandant of the Rwanda Peace Academy, and Commander of the Special Forces.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/amb-mukantabana-and-louise-mushikiwabo-eulogize-lt-gen-kabandana
