RWANDA DEFENCE FORCE OFFICERS ENHANCE OPERATIONAL READINESS THROUGH INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW SEMINAR

Today, RDF officers from various units participated in a one-day International Humanitarian Law (IHL) seminar organized by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) at Lemigo Hotel in Kigali.The seminar was officially opened by Lt Col Simon Kabera, Deputy Defence Spokesperson, along with the ICRC Head of Mission in Rwanda, Ms. Aurelie Grange.

The seminar aimed to strengthen officers' understanding of how International Humanitarian Law guides military operations, particularly the conduct of hostilities, operational planning, decision-making, and the protection of civilians during armed conflict. It also promoted the practical application of the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precautions, while encouraging the integration of IHL into operational planning and decision-making.

In his opening remarks, Lt Col Simon Kabera thanked the ICRC for its continued partnership with the Ministry of Defence and the Rwanda Defence Force. He emphasized that integrating IHL into military planning enables commanders to make sound operational decisions while fulfilling their legal obligations, and encouraged participants to strengthen their understanding through the exchange of experiences.

The ICRC Head of Mission in Rwanda, Ms. Aurelie Grange, commended the longstanding partnership between the ICRC, the Ministry of Defence, and the RDF, noting that their collaboration has significantly contributed to promoting respect for International Humanitarian Law within the force. She thanked participants for their continued commitment and wished them a productive seminar.

Closing the seminar, Lt Col Simon Kabera stressed that continuous professional training is essential to maintaining a disciplined and professional force operating in line with international standards. He urged participants to apply and share the knowledge gained, emphasizing that respect for International Humanitarian Law contributes to mission success, protects human dignity, and strengthens the RDF's reputation as a professional force committed to lawful military conduct.