RFI supports justice and public service by examining evidence scientifically and turning it into reliable findings that can be used by investigators, prosecutors, courts, institutions, and other authorized clients. Its work covers the handling, analysis, reporting, and secure management of forensic evidence and related data.
1. We help handle forensic evidence properly
RFI is responsible for collecting, packaging, transporting, receiving, storing, and analysing evidence from crime scenes and other authorised submissions. In practice, this means helping ensure that evidence is handled correctly from the moment it is collected to the point where it is analyzed and reported.
2. We conduct scientific analysis for justice and other lawful purposes
The Institute’s core role is to perform scientific analysis of evidence for judicial purposes. This includes examining submitted exhibits and producing reliable findings that support truth-finding and fair decision-making. The website draft also explains that RFI’s main responsibility is to analyse exhibits received from criminal investigations and provide forensic evidence for use in court.
3. We examine many types of evidence
RFI analyses a wide range of evidence, including human body samples and biological traces, fingerprints and other identification-related material, toxic substances such as poison, drugs and alcohol, questioned documents and signatures, weapons and tools, animal and plant samples, food or water samples in relevant cases, electronic evidence, and digital media. Your website draft expands this into practical examples such as bone, teeth, blood, semen, hair, toxic plants, travel documents, audio, image, video, and electronic devices.
4. We support sample collection in specialised situations
Although RFI’s main mandate is laboratory and forensic analysis, the uploaded content explains that RFI experts may also support crime scene investigators with specialised sample collection, especially for DNA, toxicology, and some biometric evidence that requires specific expertise or equipment.
5. We issue official results and forensic reports
After examination, RFI provides the applicant with official results of the analysis carried out. In website language, this can be explained as issuing written forensic reports or result certificates to the requesting institution, organisation, or individual through the appropriate channel.
6. We preserve evidence and keep forensic data securely
RFI keeps and manages data related to its responsibilities in accordance with relevant laws. The uploaded website content also notes that the Institute preserves and retains evidence and stores analysis-related data according to the law.
7. We provide expert support to courts when needed
Where necessary, RFI experts may appear in court to explain scientific findings and complement the written forensic report with expert testimony. This helps judges and other legal actors understand the evidence clearly and accurately.
8. We conduct research and provide training
The Presidential Order gives RFI responsibility to conduct research and provide training to advance activities within its mandate. Your website draft adds that this includes professional development for staff, tailored training for justice sector stakeholders, contribution to forensic science teaching, and support for innovation and improved forensic methods.
9. We promote innovation and continuous improvement
Your uploaded draft explains that RFI is moving beyond routine casework toward research-based management, innovation, home-grown solutions, stronger standardisation, and accreditation. This is consistent with the Order’s responsibility for research and its broader institutional role.
10. We collaborate with partners in Rwanda and internationally
The Presidential Order gives RFI authority to enter into cooperation arrangements with individuals and legal entities inside or outside the country in order to fulfil its responsibilities. This supports partnerships, technical exchange, capacity building, and institutional development.