In a statement released on Sunday, September 7, 2025, RDF revealed that Lt Gen Kabandana passed away at the Rwanda Military Referral and Teaching Hospital after a natural illness.
The RDF described the passing of Lt Gen Kabandana as deeply saddening and extended its condolences to his family.
'The Rwanda Defence Force extends its condolences and joins the family in mourning during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace,' the statement read.
Lt Gen Kabandana was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General in September 2022 by President Paul Kagame, following his tour of duty in Mozambique's Cabo Delgado Province.
He had commanded security operations as part of the Rwandan contingent supporting Mozambican forces in repelling insurgent attacks.
Born into the generation that joined the liberation struggle in 1990, Lt Gen Kabandana was among the officers credited with helping to end the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Over more than three decades of service, he rose through the ranks and held a series of senior positions in both operational and diplomatic roles.
His career included assignments as Defence Attaché at Rwanda's Embassy in Washington, DC, Chief Instructor at the Gako Military Academy, Deputy Force Commander with the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Head of Logistics in RDF, Commandant of the Rwanda Peace Academy, and Commander of the Special Forces.
He will be remembered as an experienced and dedicated officer who contributed significantly to Rwanda's defence, regional security, and international peacekeeping.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rdf-mourns-passing-of-lt-gen-innocent-kabandana
