Kigali, 21 July 2025

The Chief Instructors of African Command and Staff Colleges from 18 African nations are convening in Kigali, Rwanda, from 21-24 July 2025 to strengthen collaboration among African Command and Staff Colleges, enhance the quality and relevance of training and education, and foster a common understanding of emerging threats and operational realities.  

The meeting was officially opened by the RDF Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen MK Mubarakh. In his remarks, the CDS highlighted the vital role of the workshop in equipping military officers with not only high academic and professional standards but also the ability to operate jointly, effectively, and cohesively across various regions, where every African Officer is equipped, trained, and ready to serve not just his/her nation, but the continent as a whole.

He noted that the workshop serves as a platform for developing a shared understanding of training doctrines, methodologies, and strategic perspectives. He added that the outcomes of this workshop directly shape the training environments and exercises within African military colleges, significantly enhancing the readiness and professionalism of African officers.

General MK Mubarakh reaffirmed Rwanda’s unwavering commitment, especially in its role as Chair and host of ACoC this year, to working collaboratively with all member states to strengthen cooperation, standardize curriculum content, and incorporate digital innovations into military training systems. He underscored that, “The unity and progress of our military institutions is not only key to achieving our national security goals but also crucial in realizing the broader vision of a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Africa.”

Brig Gen Andrew Nyamvumba, Commandant of the Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College, highlighted that the participants’ presence serves as a strong testament to their steadfast support for defence education, regional cooperation, and shared aspiration for a safer and more prosperous Africa.

Before the workshop commenced, the participants visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial to pay respect to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and also toured the Campaign against Genocide Museum.