On 13^th August 2024,

The Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College (RDFCSC) celebrated the 64th Independence Day of the Central African Republic (CAR) on August 13^th, with a small reception to mark the occasion. The celebration was attended by students of Senior Command and Staff Course (SCSC)13 and the College Faculty and Staff.

The Independence Day CAR is celebrated on August 13th each year, marking the proclamation of independence from France on August 13, 1960. The CAR, formerly known as Ubangi-Shari, is a landlocked country in Central Africa. It borders Chad to the North, Sudan to the Northeast, South Sudan to the East, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the South, the Republic of the Congo to the Southwest, and Cameroon to the West.

The national anthem of the Central African Republic was played.

The Central African Republic student, Maj Bienvenu DAMA, addressed the gathering.

He said… “It is a pleasure for me to stand here on behalf of my country and the people of CAR, to share the celebration of our Independence. CAR is honoured, I express my sincere gratitude to the leadership of the Rwanda Defence Force and RDFCSC for the opportunity I’ve been given to attend SCSC13 from this prestigious college. I am the first senior officer from CAR to attend this course in Rwanda and for honouring this day and the opportunity to make a few remarks about my country, I am very grateful”.

On behalf of the College Commandant and the College fraternity, the Deputy Commandant & Chief Instructor Brig Gen Jean Chrysostome NGENDAHIMANA said in his speech… “Today we have gathered here to celebrate a day of great significance for every Central African. On this day, August 13^th we remember the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and honor their dedication and courage, which led to the birth of free and independent Central African Republic in 1960 after several years as a French Colony. It is therefore with great joy and honour that, I wish the people of CAR, particularly Maj Bienvenu DAMA here with us a very happy Independence Day”.

The Dy Comdt further continued… “The college is pleased to have Maj Bienvenu attend the SCSC at these premises. His participation will undoubtedly benefit both him and his country, as well as enhance the diversity within the college community. More importantly, his presence in Rwanda is testimony to the remarkable bilateral cooperation between the two sister republics of Rwanda and CAR in various fields, and more so pronounced in defence and security sector. We are happy to continue to forge ahead together as we make breakthroughs and advancements in mitigating the numerous challenges that militate against peace, security, and development”.

GROUP PHOTO