Kigali: Minister Marizamunda urges land forces to uphold responsibilities and strengthen cooperation

KIGALI, Rwanda - The Minister of Defense, Juvenal Marizamunda, has reminded land force commanders of their critical role in responding to crises and stressed the importance of regional cooperation during the closing of the two-day “Land Force Commanders Symposium” in Kigali on October 22, 2025.

The international conference, held for the second time following its inaugural meeting in France, brought together military leaders, experts, and stakeholders from across Africa and beyond to discuss continental security challenges and strategies for enhanced cooperation.

In his closing remarks, Minister Marizamunda highlighted the central role of the armed forces in responding to emergencies and maintaining peace. “We are in a difficult time that presents security challenges, including war and cross-border insecurity. The armed forces respond in times of crisis, stop violence, and lay the foundation for peace,” he said.

The symposium underscored Rwanda’s commitment to fostering military cooperation, knowledge sharing, and peacekeeping across the continent. Minister Marizamunda thanked participants for their contributions, emphasizing that joint training and collaborative strategies are essential to building a future of peace and development in Africa.

Rwandan President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Paul Kagame, opened the meeting by calling on African nations to unite in addressing security threats, noting that no continent can rely solely on external solutions. “Cooperation and collaboration based on understanding and mutual respect are what is needed,” he said.

The conference featured senior military figures, including former Nigerian Army Chief of Staff Lt Gen (Rtd) Tukur Yusufu Buratai, Kenyan Army Chief of Staff Lt Gen David Kipkemboi Ketter, and Benin Army Chief of Staff Maj Gen Abou Issa. Participants acknowledged progress in regional security cooperation but stressed ongoing challenges such as internal and cross-border conflicts, emphasizing that political will is crucial for effective solutions.

Following the symposium, the Chiefs of Staff of the Rwandan Armed Forces visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial to pay tribute to victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

The symposium, themed “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa and Beyond,” is part of Rwanda’s broader efforts to promote continental peace, security, and military collaboration.