Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) Chief of Defence Staff, General Mubarak Muganga, has urged African nations to embrace self-reliance by developing local solutions to the continent’s security and development challenges.
Addressing Officers Intake 20 (2024/25) at the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Senior Command and Staff College (SCSC) in Kimaka, Jinja, Gen Muganga underscored the importance of African-led problem-solving. “Africans should not just wait to be exploited or influenced,” he asserted. “We must be part of the conversation and raise ourselves to a level where we can dictate certain terms because we have a lot to offer.” His remarks reflected the Pan-African stance long championed by Rwandan President H.E. Paul Kagame.
Gen Muganga emphasised the continuing significance of Pan-Africanism, recalling how liberation leaders gathered in Mozambique to cultivate unity and shared identity in the struggle against colonialism. He stressed that these foundational values must continue guiding Africa’s path forward.
Calling for stronger intra-African cooperation, he advocated for both continental integration under the African Union and culturally aligned bilateral partnerships. “These avenues not only promote unity and flexibility but also strengthen inter-African relationships,” he said.
He further highlighted the importance of context-specific approaches, noting that solutions must be rooted in local culture to ensure inclusivity and sustainability.
On matters of peace and security, Gen Muganga called for comprehensive Security Sector Reforms (SSR) across Africa. He pointed to the RDF’s successful mission in Mozambique, where Rwandan forces provided training to local troops before withdrawing, thereby securing long-term stability.
He also commended the UPDF for its Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) initiatives, urging other African militaries to follow its example by positively engaging with the communities they protect.
The lecture was attended by high-ranking officials, including Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga, Commander of Land Force (representing the UPDF Chief of Defence Forces); Maj Gen George Igumba, Commandant of SCSC Kimaka; Maj Gen Daniel Kakono, Commander of the Artillery Division; Brig Gen Shillingi, Uganda’s Defence Attaché to Rwanda; and Brig Gen Silver Muhwezi, Deputy Commandant of SCSC Kimaka.
