On 22 September 2026, the Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College (RDFCSC) fraternity celebrated the Republic of Mali's 66th Independence Day. To mark the occasion, the College organised a reception for the entire fraternity. Participants in the Senior Command and Staff Course (SCSC 15), faculty members, and College staff attended.

Colonel Lausanne Ingabire Nsengimana, Course Coordinator of Professional Courses and Head of the Research and Development Department, presided over the ceremony. On behalf of the Deputy Commandant and Chief Instructor (Dy Comdt & CI) and the entire College fraternity, she extended heartfelt congratulations to Major Siaka Diakite, who proudly represents the Republic of Mali on SCSC 15.

In her remarks, Colonel Nsengimana stated: “It is a great honour and privilege to join the Government and people of Mali in celebrating the 66th Anniversary of their national independence. Mali's journey to independence was shaped by the vision, determination, and sacrifices of prominent nationalist leaders who contributed significantly to the country's political development, particularly its founding President, Modibo Keita.

Mali and Rwanda continue to enjoy cordial, mutually beneficial relations, particularly in defence cooperation. The Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College is honoured to contribute to this partnership through the professional development of officers from Mali, and we are pleased to have Major Siaka Diakite as a participant in our training programme.”

She further noted that the celebration provided an opportunity to reflect on the shared values of sovereignty, national unity, and regional cooperation that continue to strengthen relations among African nations.

Concluding her remarks, Colonel Nsengimana, on behalf of the Deputy Commandant and Chief Instructor, extended sincere congratulations and best wishes to the Government and people of the Republic of Mali. She also congratulated Major Siaka Diakite on this significant national occasion and wished Mali continued peace, stability, unity, and prosperity.

“Once again, congratulations to our Malian brother on this significant day. Happy Independence Day.”

In his remarks, Major Siaka Diakite expressed his honor and privilege in joining the College fraternity to commemorate the 66th Independence Day of the Republic of Mali. He recalled that Mali attained independence from French colonial rule on 22 September 1960, marking a significant milestone in the nation's history and its quest for self-determination.

He further highlighted Mali's recent efforts to strengthen its sovereignty and advance its national interests through policies aimed at reinforcing self-reliance, national unity, and sustainable development. He noted that these measures reflect the country's determination to safeguard its independence and chart its own future.

Major Diakite also conveyed his profound gratitude to the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College (RDFCSC) for the warm hospitality and professional support he received during his studies. He commended the excellent training environment and acknowledged the strong spirit of cooperation that characterises relations between Rwanda and Mali.

He emphasised that Rwanda’s hospitality and military partnership over the years have laid a solid foundation for a strong, enduring relationship between the two nations. He expressed confidence that the growing cooperation between Rwanda and Mali would continue to strengthen bilateral ties and contribute to peace, stability, and development across the African continent.