Musanze, Monday

September 22,2025

The College has a tradition of celebrating the independence days of our esteemed allied students and directing staff. The independence of Mali is usually celebrated on 22nd September of each year. On 22 Sep 25, the College organized an event for the fraternity to celebrate the 65th Independence Day of the Republic of Mali. The celebrations were attended by the College Commandant Brig Gen A NYAMVUMBA, Deputy Commandant & Chief Instructor Brig Gen JC NGENDAHIMANA, Faculty members, students of SCSC 14, and College Staff. The Mali Federation gained independence from France on 20 June 1960. Senegal withdrew from the federation in August 1960, which allowed the Sudanese Republic to become the independent Republic of Mali on 22 September 1960, and that date is now the country's Independence Day.

The occasion was graced by the College Commandant Brig Gen A NYAMVUMBA. He said, “It is a profound honor to welcome you all as we join our brother, Major Abdoulaye Kassoum DIAKITE, in celebrating the Independence Day of his nation, the Republic of Mali. In a spirit of solidarity and fellowship, I extend our heartfelt congratulations: Happy Independence Day to the people of Mali, and to you, Maj DIAKITE, in particular. Mali and Rwanda continue to enjoy strong bilateral relations, with defence cooperation being a key pillar. We are therefore particularly pleased to host Major Abdoulaye Kassoum DIAKITE and to be a part of his professional development through our training programs. This partnership strengthens not only our institutions but also the bonds between our nations. Once again, congratulations to our Malian brother on this momentous day. Happy Independence Day!”

The Mali student, Major Abdoulaye Kassoum DIAKITE, addressed the gathering. He said “I’m honored to celebrate with the College community, a significant milestone that forever altered the course of our Nation, the 65^th independence of the Republic of Mali. Today, as the sun rises over our beloved land, we welcome this day with pride and reverence to commemorate our independence, an independence won though courage, vision, and sacrifices of those whose blood has served as the foundation of our identity and aspirations. On this day of reflection and celebration, I would like also to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to the Rwanda Defence Force, particularly, the Command and Staff College. It is a significant honor to be the second Malian student, having the opportunity to study in this esteemed College”

GROUP PHOTO.