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A total of 254 officers and Other ranks from the Central African Republic Armed Forces (FACA) today graduated from the 06-month Basic Special Operations Force Training Course, Intake 02/2026, conducted by Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) at the RDF Basic Military Training Centre, Nasho, Kirehe District.

The graduation ceremony was presided over by the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen MK MUBARAKH, alongside the Chief of General Staff of the FACA, Gen Zephirin MAMADOU, Generals and Senior officers from both forces attended the ceremony to witness this milestone.

The course aimed to enhance the operational capabilities of FACA personnel through intensive military training, equipping them with the skills, discipline and professional competence required to undertake special operations tasks and operate effectively in demanding operational environments.

The RDF Chief of Defence Staff congratulated the graduates on successfully completing the rigorous 06-month training course. He commended their commitment, discipline, resilience and determination throughout the training period.

He encouraged the graduates to uphold the professional standards they had acquired, serve their country with dedication and apply their newly acquired capabilities responsibly. He reaffirmed the RDF’s commitment to sharing its experience and expertise with friendly armed forces as part of collective efforts to promote peace, security and stability across the African continent.

Gen MAMADOU, the FACA Chief of General Staff, expressed his sincere appreciation to the Government of Rwanda, the RDF leadership and the instructors for their commitment, professionalism and dedication throughout the training period. He emphasised that the skills, discipline and knowledge acquired by their personnel would enhance their ability to fulfil their duties effectively and contribute to the security and stability of the Central African Republic.

Second Lieutenant Christ NGBOUNDOUROU, one of the graduates, reaffirmed his commitment to putting the skills acquired in Rwanda into practice to defend his country and the people of the Central African Republic.

During the 06-month Basic Special Operations Force Training Course, the trainees acquired advanced tactical skills essential for special operations. These included marksmanship with small arms and support weapons, hand-to-hand combat, river and water crossing, military map reading and Heliborne operations, among other specialised skills.

The graduation marks an important milestone in the professional development of FACA personnel and underscores the longstanding defence cooperation between Rwanda and the Central African Republic, particularly in military training, capacity-building and professional development.