Today 27 October 2025, The Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College joined Zambia’s students who are pursuing SCSC 14 at RDFCSC in celebrating its 61^st Independence Anniversary. To mark this historic occasion, RDFCSC hosted the event with a reception that brings together the entire College fraternity including students of the Senior Command and Staff Course 14, faculty members, support staff and UR members. The celebration has been delayed because the Senior Course students and faculty were on a short break at the end of Term One.

The Republic of Zambia observes its national Independence Day on 24 October each year, commemorating its independence from the United Kingdom in 1964. The occasion was graced by Dy Comdt & CI of RDFCSC, Brig Gen JC NGENDAHIMANA on behalf of the Comdt. 

In his note address, Lt Col Albert KASHINGA a student of SCSC14 from Zambia Air Force accompanied by his colleague Maj Madalitso Zulu said: it is with deep pride and humble gratitude that I stand before you today to celebrate the 61st Independence Anniversary of the Republic of Zambia. On behalf of my colleague, the Zambian people and indeed on my own behalf, we wish to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Government of Rwanda, and in particular, the authorities of this prestigious Staff College for organizing this memorable celebration in honor of our nation. We are truly humbled by the warmth, friendship, and hospitality extended to us.

He added that Zambia’s journey to freedom was not an easy one. Under the British colonial rule, our people faced discrimination, forced labor, and economic exclusion. Yet, through faith, courage and sacrifice, they rose to shape their own destiny. The struggle was fought not with guns, but with hearts that refused to surrender. Inspired by leaders such as Dr. Kenneth David Kaunda, the Father of our Nation, Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula, Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe, and many unsung heroes, brave men and women marched, organised, and spoke truth to power in the struggle for freedom.

They believed in the promise of freedom so deeply that they endured imprisonment, intimidation, and exile, so that future generations could stand tall under the banner of a free Zambia. On October 24, 1964, when the Union Jack was lowered and the Zambian flag rose for the first time, the world witnessed a people reclaiming their dignity, their identity, and their voice.

From that day, our national motto, “One Zambia, One Nation”, became the heartbeat of our republic. It reminded us that we are not tribes divided by language or region, but brothers and sisters united by a shared dream. This unity has been our greatest inheritance.

Zambia did not guard its independence selfishly but used its freedom to support its neighbours that were still fighting against oppression and injustice. It became a safe home for liberation movements from Zimbabwe, Namibia, Mozambique, Angola, and South Africa, offering refuge for freedom fighters. Though the struggle was difficult, Zambians remained strong, believing that true freedom would come only when all of Africa was free.

Today, as we celebrate a nation whose resilience and renewal stand as a powerful example, we are reminded that the journey of freedom does not end with political independence. It continues as a struggle for economic freedom, innovation and self-reliance, where nations strive to build lasting progress for their people. True independence is realized when every citizen lives with dignity, when education empowers the young, when opportunities replace poverty, and when peace brings prosperity for all.

He added that, as we are gathered in this esteemed institution, we are to remember that we are the custodians of the legacy passed down by our founding fathers and freedom fighters. We carry the torch lit by our forefathers, our duty is to keep it burning. Let us defend peace, uphold integrity, and build bridges across borders, so that our continent may rise as one. Let us carry forward the spirit of independence in our service, in our professionalism, and in our character.

He extended his profound gratitude to the Government of Rwanda and the college authorities for honoring Zambia with this celebration. May our two nations continue to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation that unite us. And may the spirit of “One Zambia, One Nation”, remind us all that unity is our power, peace is our shield, and service is our calling.

Happy Independence, Zambia!

The Deputy Commandant and Chief Instructor in his remarks said: We are gathered here today to celebrate the 61st Independence Day of ZAMBIA. As just mentioned by Zambian student, Zambia gained independence on 24 October 1964 under the leadership of late Dr Kenneth Kaunda, after several years as a British Colony. We are honouring the Zambian sovereignty this morning as part of our tradition of inclusivity and respect for all nations represented here at our college.

 It is therefore with great joy and honour that, on behalf of the Comdt and the College fraternity, I wish the people of Zambia, particularly Lt Col Albert KASHINGA and Maj Madalitso ZULU here with us, a very Happy Independence Day.

The independence of Zambia is celebrated on 24 October. However, since this date fell on Term One Course Break, it was not possible to hold celebrations at the College. Nonetheless, recognizing the significance of this event and the importance it holds for our unity and brotherhood, we are celebrating it today.

This Day was made possible by generations of freedom fighters and advocates, who selflessly, through thick and thin, struggled to achieve the independence we celebrate today. We are deeply proud of their struggle, resilience and patience. Their fight was just, noble and indispensable in putting an end to the demeaning bondage forced upon Zambian people by British.

The journey of Zambia to independence was led by Kenneth Kaunda, who founded the Zambia African National Congress (ZANC). On 24 October 1964, Zambia officially gained independence from Britain, with Kaunda becoming the country’s first president. Under his leadership, guided by the national motto “One Zambia, One Nation”, he emphasised national unity and economic development by establishing a one-party state and seeking to transcend tribal divisions in order to build a cohesive nation.

The experiences of Zambia reflect broader patterns witnessed across Africa during the decolonization era. Many African nations faced comparable colonial legacies that ignited powerful independence movements marked by political mobilization, resistance to colonial rule, and the establishment of new systems of governance. The quest for independence and the subsequent challenges of post-colonial state-building remain defining features in the historical trajectories of numerous African countries.

We are pleased to have Lt Col Albert KASHINGA and Maj Madalitso ZULU from Zambia attending the Senior Command and Staff Course at the Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College. Their participation will not only yield valuable benefits for them and their nation, but will also further enhance the rich diversity of our College community.

I cannot conclude without highlighting the strong bonds of brotherhood and partnership between the sister republics of Rwanda and Zambia, particularly the close defence cooperation between the Zambia Defence Force and the Rwanda Defence Force. This College has been a proud beneficiary of that collaboration, hosting 2 Zambian students each year since its inception. In turn, many senior officers of the RDF, including the current CDS, have received training in Zambia. 

Such cooperation, rooted in shared interests and mutual respect, exemplifies the spirit of African solidarity and is essential for our continent to fully enjoy the fruits of its hard-won independence. 

Once again, I want to extend my warmest congratulations to the people of Zambia on this significant occasion. Happy Independence Day!