Bugesera, 18 December 2025

The Deputy Defence Spokesperson, Lt Col Simon Kabera, on Thursday delivered a lecture to Ministry of Health officials, highlighting the vital connection between national security, public health, and national resilience. The retreat brought together over 120 participants from the Ministry of Health, its affiliated agencies, and senior leadership.

The five-day leadership retreat, taking place from 15 to 19 December 2025 at the Rwanda Military Academy–Gako in Bugesera District, is held under the theme "Building a Healthy and Resilient Nation: Lessons from the Past, Priorities for Our Future.”

In his presentation, Lt Col Kabera reflected on Rwanda’s journey in rebuilding and strengthening its health and security institutions, noting that resilience is shaped not only by military strength but also by effective governance, robust institutions, and a healthy population.

“Health security and national security are inseparable,” he stated. “A nation’s ability to prevent, detect, and respond to health threats directly contributes to its stability and resilience.”
He also emphasized the importance of coordination and collaboration among institutions when responding to crises, citing Rwanda’s effective management of past public health emergencies as a result of discipline, planning, and accountability.

He reminded participants that building a healthy and resilient nation is a collective responsibility. He stressed that Rwanda’s continued progress stems learning from the past and planning strategically for the future, driven by unity, innovation, and preparedness.