The Government of Rwanda has officially established the National Defence University-Rwanda (NDU-R), bringing together military, police, and intelligence training institutions under one umbrella to strengthen capacity in national security and defence.
The law establishing the university was published on April 10, 2026. It states that the institution will be jointly supervised by the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry in charge of Education. Its headquarters will be in Kigali, although it may be relocated elsewhere in the country if necessary.
NDU-R comprises several colleges, including the National Defence College-Rwanda, Defence College of Health Sciences, Defence Institute of Sciences and Technology, and Institute for Defence and Strategic Studies, all based in Kigali.
Other constituent institutions include the National Intelligence Academy in Bugesera District, the Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College and National Police College in Musanze District, as well as the Rwanda Military Academy in Bugesera.
The university aims to provide advanced education, training, and research for personnel in defence and security institutions, senior government officials involved in national security, and international partners.
According to the law, Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda and Commander-in-Chief of the Rwanda Defence Force, will serve as the Chancellor of Honour of NDU-R.
The law states:
“The Chancellor of Honour provides strategic guidance to enable NDU-R to achieve its mission and presides over graduation ceremonies or appoints a representative.”
