RDF officers undergo training on international humanitarian law

By The Inspirer.

Officers from various branches of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) have completed a one-day training on the application of international humanitarian law (IHL), reinforcing the military’s commitment to conducting operations in accordance with internationally recognized legal standards.

The training, held on July 22 at Lemigo Hotel in Kigali, was organized by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). It brought together RDF officers from different units to strengthen their understanding of the role of international humanitarian law in military planning, decision-making and the conduct of military operations.

The workshop was officially opened by Lt. Col. Simon Kabera, deputy spokesperson of the Rwanda Defence Force, alongside Aurélie Grange, head of delegation of the ICRC in Rwanda.

The sessions focused on the practical application of international humanitarian law during armed conflict, with particular emphasis on the protection of civilians, the integration of legal considerations into operational planning and compliance with the rules governing the conduct of hostilities.

Participants also examined key principles of IHL, including the distinction between civilians and combatants, the proportionate use of force and precautionary measures aimed at minimizing civilian harm during military operations.

Addressing participants, Lt. Col. Kabera commended the ICRC for its longstanding partnership with Rwanda’s Ministry of Defence and the Rwanda Defence Force in promoting knowledge and implementation of international humanitarian law.

He said integrating IHL into military planning enables commanders to make informed operational decisions while fulfilling their legal obligations and maintaining high professional standards. He also encouraged participants to exchange experiences and best practices to strengthen the practical application of the law across the force.

Grange praised the longstanding cooperation between the ICRC, the Ministry of Defence and the RDF, saying the partnership has played an important role in promoting respect for international humanitarian law within Rwanda’s armed forces.

She thanked the participating officers for their commitment and expressed confidence that the training would further strengthen their ability to apply humanitarian law effectively during military operations.

Closing the workshop, Lt. Col. Kabera stressed that continuous training in international humanitarian law is essential to building a disciplined and professional military that operates in accordance with international legal standards.

He urged participants to apply the knowledge gained and share it with fellow officers, noting that respect for international humanitarian law contributes to mission success, protects human dignity and reinforces the Rwanda Defence Force’s reputation as a professional force committed to the rule of law.