A delegation of 13 senior officers and faculty members from the Sri Lanka Defence Services Command and Staff College, led by Group Capt DMS Rangodage, was warmly received today at the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Headquarters in Kimihurura. The delegation was welcomed by Brig Gen Louis Kanobayire, Chief J7 in charge of Education, Training, and Doctrine, representing the Ministry of Defence and the RDF.
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Visit Aimed at Strengthening Military Cooperation
The delegation is in Rwanda for a study tour scheduled from 27 July to 9 August 2026. In his remarks, Brig Gen Kanobayire emphasized the longstanding friendship between Rwanda and Sri Lanka, highlighting their shared commitment to professional military education, peace, and international security. He noted that the visit provides an excellent opportunity to further strengthen ties between the two defence institutions.
Brig Gen Kanobayire also underlined that beyond the exchange of experiences, such visits allow both sides to deepen their understanding of the evolving security environment, share best practices in military leadership and education, and identify new avenues for collaboration.
Delegation Commends Rwanda’s Development Journey
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Group Capt Rangodage described the visit as an important and valuable opportunity to gain deeper insights into Rwanda’s socio-economic development, as well as the structure and operations of the RDF.
During their visit, the delegation received a presentation on the remarkable transformation of the RDF from a post-conflict force into a modern and professional military institution. The presentation highlighted the RDF’s pivotal role in safeguarding national sovereignty, supporting socio-economic development, and contributing significantly to regional and international peace and security through active participation in peacekeeping missions and collaborative defence initiatives.
Visits to Genocide Memorial and Campaign Against Genocide Museum
The delegation also visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial to pay respects to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. They toured the Campaign Against Genocide Museum, gaining deeper insights into Rwanda’s history and the efforts that brought the Genocide to an end.
Study Tour Continues Across Key Institutions
The study tour will continue with visits to various Rwandan government institutions and agencies affiliated with the Ministry of Defence, further enriching the delegation’s understanding of Rwanda’s defence and governance structures.
