Kigali, 18 November 2024

From 18 to 20 November 2024, experts from East African Community (EAC) partner states gathered in Kigali, Rwanda for the Multi-Agency Experts Working Group meeting. The three-day meeting aimed to develop Standard Operating Procedures and protocols for handling Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) threats within EAC member states.

In his opening remarks, Brig Gen Dr. Eugene Ngoga, speaking on behalf of the RDF Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), warmly welcomed the experts and highlighted the meeting's crucial outcomes. “Your presence here underscores our shared commitment to strengthening the collective security of our region and protecting our people from the complex and evolving challenges posed by CBRNE threats,” he stated.

He emphasized that the forum would enhance the region’s readiness and interoperability to ensure security. “Through this forum, we are demonstrating the unity that underpins the EAC. Together, we have the opportunity to forge protocols and procedures that will enhance our readiness, improve our interoperability, and ensure the safety and security of our region,” he added.

Colonel Deng Mayom Manyang Malual, Defence Liaison Officer from South Sudan, and representative of the EAC Secretary General, expressed confidence in the meeting’s success. He praised the diverse group of experts, including doctors, scientists, chemists, military personnel, police officers, and civilians, who have come together to develop a comprehensive document that will guide the military operations of EAC partner states.

The East African Community (EAC) is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising eight partner states, dedicated to promoting sustainable development and regional integration across sectors such as trade, infrastructure, and health.