Kigali, 22 May 2024

The eleventh National Security Symposium 2024 jointly organised by Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College (RDFCSC) and the University of Rwanda (UR) has officially opened at Kigali Convention Centre.

The three-day symposium brought together academicians, government officials, diplomats and subject matter experts including Generals, Senior Military, Police Officers and civilians from 52 countries to discuss contemporary security issues on a revolving theme: “Contemporary Security Challenges: The African Perspective”.

In his opening remarks, Minister of Defence, Hon Juvenal Marizamunda reminded participants our world is confronted with a myriad of security challenges that threaten peace and stability adding that these challenges range from terrorism and violent extremism to cyber threats through governance failures, climate change, global energy disruptions, food insecurity, unfair trade and financial systems, to mention but a few.

“This symposium offers a golden opportunity to engage in fruitful discussions, analyse current trends, share best practices, and collaborate on innovative approaches to address the multifaceted security challenges facing our continent today and build a more secure and sustainable future for all. I am confident that the diverse expertise and perspectives represented in this symposium will enrich our discussions and contribute to the development of innovative strategies to enhance the much needed peace and security on our continent,” said Hon Marizamunda.

The symposium discussions will cover a variety of topics ranging from Youth radicalisation and International Violent Extremism, Climate Change in Africa, Global Energy Crisis and Transitions, Food Security in Africa, The Compounding Effects of Global Shocks on Trade, Supply Chain and Debt Trap and Insecurity in Africa.

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