Staff Reporter
A DELEGATION of 30 senior officers and faculty members from the Namibia Command and Staff College is conducting a one-week study tour in Rwanda aimed at strengthening professional military cooperation and gaining insights into the country’s defence, security, governance and post-conflict recovery.
The delegation, led by Commandant Brig Gen Erastus Benhard Nathinge, visited the Rwandan Ministry of Defence and Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Headquarters, where they received a briefing on the evolution and transformation of the RDF.
The briefing was led by Brig Gen Patrick Karuretwa, Director General of International Military Cooperation and Defence Spokesperson, accompanied by Brig Gen Louis Kanobayire, who leads the RDF’s Education, Training and Doctrine.
Photos: Republic of Rwanda
The session highlighted the RDF’s evolution from a liberation movement into a modern, professional military institution focused on national development, regional peace and international security.
Karuretwa emphasised the strong defence ties between Rwanda and Namibia, noting that the study tour provides a platform for the two countries to exchange best practices, particularly in military education and training.
Nathinge also underscored the purpose of the visit and the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries, referencing President Paul Kagame’s 2019 state visit to Namibia.
He added that the two defence forces actively collaborate on military training and operational interoperability, particularly in international peacekeeping missions.
As part of their itinerary, the delegation visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial to pay respects to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, followed by a tour of the Campaign against Genocide Museum.
The delegation’s remaining programme includes visits to the RDF Command and Staff College, military welfare agencies such as Zigama CSS and Military Medical Insurance, as well as several government institutions.
