RDF Denies allegations of sexual misconduct against its troops in Central African Republic

The Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) has strongly refuted allegations of sexual misconduct leveled against its troops serving in the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic (CAR).

The allegations, published by international media outlets including The New Humanitarian and Le Monde, accuse RDF soldiers of engaging in sexual abuse and exploitation while stationed in CAR. RDF, in a statement released on October 16, 2024, dismissed these claims as baseless and unsubstantiated.

The RDF statement specifically addressed three separate allegations presented by journalist Barbara Debout, stating that each accusation lacked credibility.

The military reiterated its longstanding commitment to professionalism and strict adherence to rules and regulations governing the conduct of its soldiers during peacekeeping missions.

One of the claims involved an incident where a woman named “Jeanne,” a vegetable vendor in Bangui, allegedly experienced sexual assault by a Rwandan soldier in 2023.

The RDF categorically denied this, stating that no civilian can access its military base in Bangui without authorization, making such an event impossible.

According to RDF protocols, civilian entry to the base is strictly regulated, and no unauthorized individuals are allowed within military zones.

Another accusation claimed that a 28-year-old woman named “Grace” was assaulted by Rwandan troops in the northern town of Paoua. RDF firmly rejected this, pointing out that no Rwandan soldiers have been deployed in that area, and thus, the claim is unfounded.

The third allegation involved two women in Ndassima, about 400 kilometers from Bangui, who were allegedly sexually assaulted. RDF, however, emphasized that neither Rwandan troops nor any MINUSCA peacekeepers have been stationed in that region, making the accusations baseless.
In response to these allegations, RDF highlighted its significant and longstanding contribution to peacekeeping efforts in CAR, where its forces have been deployed since 2014.

RDF troops initially arrived under the African Union’s MISCA mission before transitioning to the UN’s MINUSCA peacekeeping force. Over the years, RDF soldiers have been responsible for protecting civilians, safeguarding UN installations, and providing security for the country’s leadership, including the president and his family.

In 2020, Rwanda sent additional troops to CAR following a bilateral agreement aimed at reinforcing security during a period of intensified rebel activity.

The Rwandan contingent has been praised by international and local officials for its professionalism and dedication to maintaining peace in the troubled country.

In April 2022, Central African Republic President Prof. Archange Touadéra personally commended the Rwandan peacekeepers for their extraordinary efforts in stabilizing the country during difficult times. He awarded Rwandan troops with medals in recognition of their exceptional work in restoring peace and security, further strengthening the ties between the two nations.

In its latest statement, RDF reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward any form of sexual exploitation or abuse, emphasizing that such behavior would never be tolerated among its ranks.

RDF also pointed out that the allegations reported by the media lacked evidence, and, if any credible claims were to arise, they would be investigated with the seriousness they deserve.

Nevertheless, RDF noted that the current accusations appear to be fabricated, as none of the incidents occurred in areas where Rwandan troops are stationed.

The RDF concluded by reiterating its dedication to upholding Rwanda’s values of integrity, responsibility, and accountability in all its peacekeeping efforts. For over 20 years, Rwandan peacekeepers have served with distinction in various missions across the world, fulfilling their duties with honor and respect for the local populations they are tasked with protecting.

As Rwanda continues to play a pivotal role in global peacekeeping, RDF remains committed to supporting international efforts to bring stability to conflict zones, such as the Central African Republic, while ensuring that the highest standards of conduct are maintained by its personnel.