Kigali, 22 April 2024

Today, Armed Forces delegates from East African Community (EAC) member states, comprising military, police, prisons, immigration and civilian personnel, convene in Rwanda for a three-day Final Planning Conference (FPC) in preparation for the 13th East African Community Armed Forces Field Training Exercise (FTX) USHIRIKIANO IMARA 2024.

On behalf of RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Maj Gen Andrew KAGAME, the Deputy Reserve Force Chief of Staff warmly welcomed the delegates to the conference. He highlighted Rwanda's commitment to hosting the 13th EAC FPX USHIRIKIANO IMARA 2024 scheduled in June 2024. He noted that this conference serves as an opportunity to reaffirm the EAC Armed Force's commitment to unity, cooperation, collaboration, and mutual support in advancing peace, security, and stability throughout the region.

He encouraged all attendees to participate in productive discussions, underlining the exercise's importance in demonstrating the EAC Armed Forces' strength and resilience.

Col Malual Deng Mayom MANYANG, representing the EAC Secretary General, expressed gratitude to all participants and acknowledged Rwanda for hosting this important conference. He emphasized the conference's purpose as to finalize the planning process for the 13th EAC Armed Forces FTX, USHIRIKIANO IMARA 2024, in line with the approved roadmap.

During the conference, a moment of silence was observed to honour and remember the Chief of Defence Forces of the Kenya Defence Forces, who recently passed away.