The Rwanda National Police (RNP) is preparing to deploy drones to monitor road safety and traffic violations across the country, marking a significant step in modernizing law enforcement operations.
According to RNP spokesperson ACP Boniface Rutikanga, the initiative focuses on public safety rather than punitive measures.
“This initiative is not about imposing fines or penalties; it is about ensuring public order, safety, and security for our citizens,” Rutikanga explained during an interview with The New Times on January 3.
Although drone technology is yet to be fully implemented nationwide, it is expected to revolutionize road monitoring. Rutikanga highlighted that drones would allow law enforcement to detect suspicious activities, oversee large gatherings, and respond swiftly to emergencies, especially in remote areas.
“Drones have already played a critical role in maintaining public order in various parts of the country, and they hold immense potential for traffic monitoring,” he noted.
Successful Pilot Exercise
The decision to introduce drones for road safety followed a successful pilot exercise in remote areas, which primarily targeted illegal mining activities and other security concerns.
“We’ve been using drones in public order management operations, such as identifying illegal mining activities. Now, we’re introducing them for road safety management and enforcement,” Rutikanga said. He added that the RNP intends to roll out the technology across the country.
Supporting Rwanda’s Digitization Policy
The deployment of drones aligns with Rwanda’s broader policy of digitizing services to enhance efficiency and accountability. “It’s not that there was a gap; it’s simply the right time to use this technology,” Rutikanga explained.
“Technology achieves more than human efforts can accomplish. Deploying tools like drones addresses specific challenges with precision, significantly improving our operational outcomes,” he added.
Addressing Privacy Concerns
To mitigate concerns about privacy and misuse, Rutikanga assured that the use of drones would be governed by strict protocols. “We abide by data protection laws and do not disclose information without the individual’s consent,” he emphasized.
He clarified that any data collected during incidents, such as accidents or traffic violations, would only be used for policing and prosecution purposes. “Nothing beyond that,” he stressed.
Building Public Trust
RNP plans to engage communities through awareness campaigns to highlight the benefits of drone technology and address public concerns.
“We will educate citizens about how we operate, addressing questions such as who enforces the rules and how they operate,” Rutikanga said. “Additionally, we will maximize the use of evidence to ensure our actions are justifiable and transparent.”
This initiative is expected to enhance road safety and strengthen trust between the police and the public as Rwanda continues to embrace technology in its service delivery.
