Kigali, 22 May 2024

In collaboration with the University of Rwanda (UR), the Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College (RDFCSC) organized the eleventh National Security Symposium (NSS) held at the Kigali Convention Centre.

The three-day symposium brought together academicians, government officials, diplomats, and subject matter experts. These included Generals, Senior Military and Police Officers, and civilians from 52 countries to discuss contemporary security issues on the yearly revolving theme: “Contemporary Security Challenges: The African Perspective”.

In his opening remarks, the Rwandan Minister of Defence, Hon Juvenal Marizamunda reminded all participants that the world is confronted with a myriad of security challenges that threaten peace and stability. These challenges range from terrorism and violent extremism to cyber threats through governance failures, climate change, global energy disruptions, food insecurity, unfair trade, and financial systems, just to mention but a few.

In his opening remarks, the Minister said “This symposium offers a golden opportunity to engage in fruitful discussions, analyze current trends, share best practices, and collaborate on innovative approaches to address the multifaceted security challenges facing our continent today and build a more secure and sustainable future for all. I am confident that the diverse expertise and perspectives represented in this symposium will enrich our discussions and contribute to the development of innovative strategies to enhance the much-needed peace and security on our continent”.

During the symposium, the discussions covered a variety of topics ranging from Youth Radicalization and International Violent Extremism; Climate Change in Africa; Global Energy Crisis and Transitions; Food Security in Africa; The Compounding Effects of Global Shocks on Trade, Supply Chain, and Debt Trap; and Insecurity in Africa, Roots, Implications and Way Forward.

NSS2024 Session1: Moderated by Mr. Joel Kibazo Panelists Maj Gen J NZABAMWITA, Nickolay MLADENOV, Toulu AKERELE, Dr. Afzal ASHRAF, and Dr. Zenebe BEYENE discuss “Youth Radicalization and International Violent Extremism: Implications for African Security”.

NSS2024 Session 2: Moderated by Joseph Warungu. Panelists Teddy Mpinganzima Mugabo, Juliet Kabera, Prof Beth Kaplin, and Prof Innocent CHIRISA deliberate on: “Climate Change in Africa: Vulnerabilities & Options for Building Resilience"

NSS2024 Session 3: Moderated by Dr. Albert Butare, focused on “Global Energy Crisis and Transitions: Threats and Opportunities for Africa". Panelists Hon Dr. Jimmy Gasore, Mr. Dan Klinck, Mr Yves MUYANGE, and Prof Rory MILLER shared views and experiences.

NSS2024 Session4: Mr. David MPANGA, the Moderator, hosts Hon Eric Rwigamba, Dr. Geraldine Mukeshimana, Prof Hamadi Iddi Boga, and Dr. Richard FERGUSON as they debate on “Food Security in Africa: Threats, Implication and Options".

NSS2024 Session 5, focuses on “The Compounding Effects of Global Shocks on Trade, Supply Chain and Debt Trap: Strategic Options for Africa”. Mr. Tony Kajangwe moderates discussions between Hon Dr Jean Chrysostome Ngabitsinze, Dr Donald KABERUKA, Prof Atif Mian, and Mr. Tony STENNING.

NSS2024 Session 6 tackles “Insecurity in Africa:

Roots, Implications and Way Forward.” Dr Frederick GOLOOBA-MUTEBI assists Dr Vincent Biruta, Hon Abdoulaye DIOP, Mr. Brian KAGORO, and Brig Gen Metodi HADJI-JANEV to share their views and experiences on the subject matter.

Hon Min of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation, Dr Vincent BIRUTA presided over the closing ceremony of the National Security Symposium NSS2024.

He said, “It is my conviction that this symposium has addressed a good portion of the security challenges affecting our times and our Continent”.