A cross–section of Ministry of Defence (MOD) and Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) leadership ended a two days retreat [13 – 14 June 2008] at Urumuri Hotel in Gicumbi District, Northern Province. The retreat brought together the Minister of Defence, the Chief of General Staff, the Service Chiefs [Army and Air Force], the Secretary General in the Ministry of Defence, Division Commanders, Joint Staff (Js) and Heads of Department at the RDF Headquarter, Commandants of Military Training Institutions, the Chairman of Military Tender Committee as well as the Directors in the Ministry of Defence. The Presidential Advisor on Defence and Security also attended the retreat.

The meeting was preceded by a number of presentations that included: The Contribution of the Defence Sector to Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS) and to the overall National Vision 2020; RDF Vision, priorities and challenges; RDF Restructuring; Logistics and procurement planning; Threats to national Defence; Personnel welfare and morale; Capability gaps and development; Military training and education; Personnel planning and career development; Resource mobilization and allocation among others.

The retreat reassessed the priorities, strategies and challenges of the Defence Sector in the short, medium and long term. Participants at the retreat also deliberated on the draft National Defence Policy. Before the closure of the meeting by Honorable Minister of Defence Gen Marcel GATSINZI, participants approved the resolutions of the retreat that included priorities, timeframe and implementation mechanism. It was also recommended that such a retreat be held annually.