On 13 August 2025, the Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College (RDFCSC) celebrated the 65th Independence Day of the Central African Republic (CAR) with a small reception. The event was attended by students of the Senior Command and Staff Course (SCSC) 14 and the College Faculty and support Staff.

The Independence Day of CAR is celebrated on August 13^th each year, marking the proclamation of independence from France on 13^th August, 1960. 

The national anthem of the Central African Republic was played.

The Central African Republic student, Maj Francis Marien BECHIBANGI, addressed the gathering.

He said… “On August 13^th, 1960. Our country broke the chains of colonial rule and stood tall as a free and sovereign state. OUBANGUI CHARI became the Central African Republic. It was a moment of great hope and determination, born from the courage of our ancestors who dreamed of a future where the Central African people would decide their own destiny. As we mark this 65^th anniversary of our independence, we must reflect on how far we have come and how far we still must go.  I am the second senior officer from CAR to attend this course in Rwanda, and for honoring this day and the opportunity to make a few remarks about my country, I am very grateful. We have faced many political instabilities, conflicts, and economic hardships, but we have also shown resilience, unity, and an unbreakable spirit. Every time we fall, we rise again stronger, wiser, and more determined to build a nation of peace, justice, and prosperity. 

To our youth: You are the future of this country. Let us carry forward the dreams of our founding fathers with education, innovation, and hard work.

To our leaders: Let us lead with integrity, wisdom, and vision. Let us put the interest of the nation above all else.

To our people: Let us stand united. Peace and progress can only be achieved if we choose dialogue over division, hope over fear, and action over apathy.

Let us honor this day not only with celebration, but with commitment to peace, development, and unity.”

On behalf of the College's entire fraternity, the Commandant, Brig Gen Andrew NYAMVUMBA, remarked:

 “It is my privilege to join you today in honouring the 65^th Independence Day of the Central African Republic. As mentioned, on the 13^th of August in 1960, the country reached a historic milestone, the end of French colonial rule. This event symbolizes the resilience and indomitable spirit of its people in their struggle for freedom, as ably narrated by Maj Marien. On behalf of the RDFCSC community, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the people of the Central African Republic, with special recognition to Maj Francis, who is with us today.

Today, we not only celebrate the sovereignty of the Central African Republic but also the enduring partnership between our two countries. Our cooperation with the Central African Republic is a strong testament to African solidarity, notably in Defence and security. To the continued peace, prosperity, and friendship between the Central African Republic and Rwanda. May our partnership grow stronger, our cooperation deepen, and our shared commitment to regional stability endure for many years to come. To friendship, to peace, and to progress. In closing, I once again extend warm congratulations to the people of the Central African Republic on this momentous occasion. Happy 65^th Independence Day!” 

GROUP PHOTO.