A delegation from the Zimbabwe Staff College Joint Command and Staff Course 39 is undertaking a two-week study tour in Rwanda aimed at strengthening professional military cooperation and gaining insights into the country's remarkable transformation in security, governance and post-conflict recovery.

The delegation visited the Ministry of Defence and Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Headquarters, where they received a comprehensive briefing from the Director General of International Military Cooperation and Defence Spokesperson, Brig Gen Patrick Karuretwa, on the evolution and transformation of the Rwanda Defence Force. The briefing highlighted the RDF's journey from a liberation force to a modern, professional military institution committed to national development, regional peace and international security. Brig Gen Karuretwa also outlined the RDF's contributions to peace support operations across Africa and its role in promoting regional stability.

The head of delegation, Director of studies for Zimbabwe Staff College Joint Command and Staff Course, Col Cosmore Kaondera, thanked the leadership of Rwanda for the warm reception extended to the delegation and commended the country's commitment to national development. He also praised the Rwanda Defence Force for its contribution to development initiatives both within Rwanda and through its participation in international peace support operations, noting the positive impact these efforts have on communities.

The previous day, the Zimbabwean officers visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial and the Campaign Against Genocide Museum, where they reflected on the tragic history of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and Rwanda's remarkable journey towards unity, reconciliation, nation-building and lasting peace. The visits provided an opportunity to appreciate the importance of preserving historical memory while drawing valuable lessons on genocide prevention and the promotion of national cohesion.

During the remainder of the study tour, the delegation will also visit various government institutions to gain a deeper understanding of Rwanda's governance model and socio-economic development.

The study tour underscores the strong and growing cooperation between Rwanda and Zimbabwe in professional military education and reflects the shared commitment of both countries to promoting peace, security and sustainable development across the African continent.