The Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) has launched a Gender Retreat aimed at promoting gender equality and inclusion across its institutions. The three-day event kicked off on Monday June 8, at Rwanda Military Academy Gako in Bugesera District under the theme, Gender Mainstreaming and Empowerment in the Rwanda Defence Force. ALSO READ: History as Rwanda gets first seven women at rank of Colonel The retreat brought together senior officers, junior officers, and other ranks, both male and female, to reinforce ongoing efforts toward gender inclusion and empowerment in the force. Over the course of the retreat, the RDF said, participants will review achievements made in gender mainstreaming and empowerment, discuss measures to prevent and address Gender-Based Violence (GBV) within the RDF and military families, and assess progress in implementing the 2023 Gender Management Policy. ALSO READ: Increasing women in uniform is a win for everyone Speaking at the opening session, the Reserve Force Chief of Staff, Maj Gen Alexis Kagame, highlighted the significance of the retreat in promoting gender mainstreaming and empowerment. Kagame, who spoke on behalf of the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, also noted that the initiative reflects the military leadership's commitment to strengthening institutional values in line with national priorities, as well as regional and international commitments on gender equality. He also commended the President and Commander-in-Chief of the RDF for his continued support in advancing gender equality and equity within the force.
