The 33rd Ordinary Session of the Eastern Africa Committee of Chiefs of Defence Opens in Kigali: Celebrating Two Decades of EASF Commitment to Promoting Regional Peace and Security

Kigali, Rwanda –19 December 2024 –The 33rd Ordinary Session of the Eastern Africa Committee of Chiefs of Defence and Security commenced today in Kigali, Rwanda, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s 20-year journey of promoting peace and security across the region. The theme of this year’s session, “EASF: Two Decades of Commitment to Promoting Regional Peace and Security,” underscores the enduring commitment of member states to regional stability.

Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Hon. Marizamunda Juvenal, officially declared the session open, welcoming the delegates to Rwanda and highlighting the importance of this session in shaping the future of EASF. Minister Marizamunda emphasized that despite progress in regional peace, many challenges remain. The evolving nature of conflicts, increasingly involving non-state actors, requires a unified and adaptive response. He called for enhanced regional cooperation to address these challenges and achieve sustainable peace.

The Chairperson of the Chiefs of Defence Staff of the Eastern Africa Region; Chief of Defence Staff of Rwanda, Lt Gen Mubarakh Muganga, also addressed the session, welcoming the delegates on behalf of the Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff. He highlighted the importance of this session in reviewing critical security concerns and developing strategies for future peacekeeping efforts. Lt Gen Muganga also acknowledged the critical role of partnerships across the political, security, development, and humanitarian pillars in addressing security challenges.

The session follows the successful conclusion of the EASF Experts Working Group (EWG) session, held on between 16 to 18 December 2024. Over three days of intensive deliberations, the EWG drafted a comprehensive report that provides vital assessments of the current security situation across Eastern Africa. The report includes strategic priorities and recommendations aimed at addressing the evolving security challenges faced by the region.

Brigadier (Rtd) Paul Kahuria Njema, EASF Director, expressed his gratitude to Rwanda for hosting the meeting and acknowledged the tireless efforts of member states in supporting EASF’s mission. He also recognized the contributions of the African Union (AU) through the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) and the Friends of EASF for their continued support. Brigadier Njema emphasized the complex and multifaceted nature of regional security challenges, including terrorism, piracy, and political instability, which require strategic and united approaches.

The EASF’s role in addressing these challenges is critical. The organization plays a pivotal role in coordinating responses to security threats in Eastern Africa and fostering cooperation among member states. As the region faces an increasingly complex security landscape, the EASF continues to evolve, ensuring it remains an effective tool in promoting peace and stability.

Over the next two days, the Chiefs of Defence and Security will review the findings and recommendations of the EWG, discussing key security concerns affecting the region. The session will set the framework for future initiatives aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of EASF’s peacekeeping efforts.

This meeting underscores the importance of sustained collaboration in addressing the ever-evolving security challenges in Eastern Africa. As EASF celebrates 20 years of commitment, the organization remains steadfast in its mission to achieve long-term peace and stability across the region. The collective efforts of member states, regional mechanisms, and the African Union are vital in ensuring a secure and prosperous future for Eastern Africa.