Musanze, on 4 August 2025, Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College joined the Republic of Benin and Niger in celebrating their respective 65th Independence ceremony.  The College organized a reception for the entire College fraternity, a delegation of the students from Sri Lanka Defence Services Command and Staff College that was on study tour, the Students of Senior Command and Staff Course14 attended the independence ceremony.

The Republic of Benin got its independence on August 1, 1960 and gained complete freedom from France after many years of spirited efforts to secure the right to self-determination and self-rule. It’s a day of great pride for the Beninese. Dahomeans lived under French rule for over 50 years. After the World War II, they became part of the French Union, which granted them some autonomy. In 1958, they became the self-governing Republic of Dahomey when the wave of independence was sweeping over Africa. Years of political activism and social pressure lessened the grips of colonialism. In 1960, the Republic of Dahomey gained independence from France and changed its name to the Republic of Benin 15 years later.

The Republic of Niger gained its independence from France on August 3, 1960. This marked the end of French colonial rule, which had begun in the late 19th century and solidified with the establishment of the Colony of Niger in 1922. The path to independence involved gradual self-governance reforms after World War II and the establishment of the Republic of Niger in 1958, followed by full independence in 1960. 

During the occasion, the Beninese student, Maj Kpetehoto Rabelais PAMPHILE, addressed the gathering. He said…“Representing my country at this esteemed Command and Staff College is a great privilege that I was selected among others to come in Rwanda, I am proud to continue learning and gaining new insights here. I believe that the knowledge and experiences I will acquire during this course be invaluable, and I am optimistic that everything will go well. As we celebrate the independence of Benin, let us also celebrate the spirit of learning and growth. I look forward to the collaborative experiences we will share and the friendships we will gain during this course.”

The student who spoke on behalf of the Nigeriens fraternity at the college, Maj Alio Maidoukia HABIBOU, said… “On behalf of the Republic of Niger, as an officer of the Niger Armed Forces, I’m privileged and very grateful to have this opportunity to come to Rwanda and learn. Learn from a country that has gone through so much and yet has managed to become a model for Africa. An example of how much can be achieved in such a short period of time despite unparalleled challenges.”

The event was graced by the College Deputy Commandant and Chief Instructor, Brig Gen JC NGENDAHIMANA. During his speech, he said… “It is a privilege to stand before you this morning as we gather to jointly celebrate the independence anniversaries of the Republic of Niger and the Republic of Benin. Happy Independence Day to the people of both nations and especially to our fellow students, Maj HABIBOU and Maj PAMPHILE. While the Commandant would have liked to be with us on this meaningful occasion, he is away on official duties outside the College. He sends his warm regards and best wishes to both of you and your fellow citizens.

This College has a proud tradition of honouring the independence days of allied students and Directing Staff. These celebrations reflect the spirit of unity, inclusivity, and mutual respect that defines our academic and professional community. Though Benin and Niger's independence fell over the weekend, we take this opportunity today to mark both events together in the same spirit of solidarity. Maj HABIBOU and Maj PAMPHILE, your presence in this Course strengthens our College community. We are proud to welcome you both into this learning environment, which is designed to prepare officers for higher command and staff responsibilities. We trust that the experience and skills you acquire here will benefit not only your careers but also the defence forces of Niger and Benin. 

On behalf of the College fraternity, I extend our warmest congratulations to the people of Niger and Benin. Happy Independence Day!”

Group Photo.