The Central African Republic Armed Forces graduated 438 new soldiers trained by the Rwanda Defence Force, marking progress in their defense cooperation agreement. The training initiative, ongoing for two years, focuses on bolstering national security capacities. This program has yielded positive outcomes in enabling FACA to effectively protect the nation.
On March 7, 2025, the Central African Republic Armed Forces (FACA) celebrated the graduation of 438 new soldiers, among whom were 38 women, after their successful completion of a six-month military training program administered by the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF). This initiative reflects a broader defense cooperation agreement between Rwanda and the Central African Republic, focused on enhancing the security infrastructure of the latter. Over the past couple of years, hundreds of soldiers from the Central African Republic have benefited from this training effort.
This graduation marks a continuation of ongoing training efforts, with an earlier cohort of 512 soldiers having graduated on November 24, 2023, and another group of 634 soldiers on August 5, 2024. The training is part of a comprehensive security sector reform aimed at developing the Central African Republic’s quick reaction force capable of effectively managing national security responsibilities. The ceremony was conducted at Camp Kassaï in Bangui and attended by high-ranking officials, including CAR’s Prime Minister Félix Moloua, who represented President Faustin Archange Touadera.
Prime Minister Moloua praised the fruitful military cooperation between FACA and RDF, affirming the program’s vital role in enhancing the capability of the Central African Republic Armed Forces. He remarked on the government’s satisfaction with the military cooperation: “We are pleased with the military cooperation that has helped reinforce FACA. Our government is satisfied with the work done. Today, we witnessed the Central African Republic Armed Forces demonstrating their capability to protect the nation and its people.”
General Zephlin Mamadou, Chief of General Staff of FACA, acknowledged the effectiveness of the training provided by RDF, labeling it essential for addressing security issues within the country. Meanwhile, Maj Gen Vincent Nyakarundi, RDF’s Army Chief of Staff, reiterated that these training efforts stem from an initiative by the leaders of both nations, designed to cultivate skilled soldiers poised to defend the Central African Republic’s territorial integrity.
As part of the graduation event, the new soldiers demonstrated some of the essential skills acquired throughout their training, including proficiency with various types of firearms. This ceremony not only showcased their capabilities but also highlighted the ongoing commitment of RDF to support and develop FACA’s operational readiness through continuous training and career development initiatives.
In summary, the graduation of 438 soldiers from the Central African Republic Armed Forces marks a significant milestone in the collaborative military training initiative established with Rwanda. The ongoing cooperation has effectively contributed to strengthening the FACA’s capabilities, resulting in a more prepared force for national security challenges. With continued support from RDF, the Central African Republic aims to enhance its quick reaction force and ensure the nation’s security.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
