Rwanda Hosts 18th African Command and Staff Colleges Chief Instructor's Workshop

The 18th African Command and Staff Colleges Chief Instructor’s Workshop officially opened today on 21st July, 2025 in Kigali, Rwanda, bringing together 38 delegates from 18 African nations. The annual workshop, a key event for military education and cooperation on the continent, is chaired by Rwanda this year.

Prior to the opening ceremony, participants paid their respects at the Kigali Genocide Memorial at Gisozi and visited the Museum of Liberation War located at the Parliament of Rwanda, reflecting on the nation’s history and journey.

Brig. Gen. Andrew Nyamvumba, Commandant of the Rwanda Defence force command and staff college in Nyakinama, expressed profound gratitude for the presence of the Chief of Defense Staff, emphasizing its significance as a testament to unwavering support for regional cooperation and a shared vision of a secure and prosperous Africa. He highlighted that the workshop serves as the technical arm of the African Conference of Commandants (ACoC), established in 2007, reviewing past resolutions and preparing for upcoming ACoC meetings.

“The overarching aim of this conference is to strengthen collaboration among African Command and Staff colleges, enhance the quality and relevance of our training application, and foster a common understanding of emerging threats and operational realities,” stated Brig. Gen. Nyamvumba.

General MK Mubarakh the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, extended a warm welcome to the delegates, acknowledging their commitment to advancing professional military education and enhancing collective security. He underscored the central role of the Chief Instructors workshop in training military officers to operate jointly and effectively across different regions.

“In a world where threats to peace and security are increasingly complex and dynamic, Africa must continue to invest in strong, adaptive, and furthermore training,” Gen Muganga asserted. He highlighted this year’s theme, “The Future of African Military Training and Education: Digital Divide,” as particularly relevant in an evolving technological landscape.

[caption id=“attachment_36783” align=“alignnone” width=“1024”] General MK Mubarakh, the RDF Chief of Defence Staff[/caption]

General MK Mubarakh mentioned the importance of integrating digital innovation into training systems and ensuring no military institution or officer is left behind in the digital era. He encouraged delegates to engage in open dialogue and knowledge sharing, stating, “The future of African military training and education depends on the decisions and collaborations we foster here today.”

The workshop aims to contribute meaningfully to peace, stability, and the professional development of future military leaders across Africa, equipping them to serve not only their nations but the entire continent.

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