The Minister of Defence Juvenal Marizamunda has opened the inaugural National Defence College-Rwanda (NDC-R) course, calling for strategic leadership capable of addressing the country’s security interests beyond the military sphere.

The NDC-R, a constituent organ of the National Defence University-Rwanda, provides education at the strategic level for senior leaders.

The college was established following a directive by President Paul Kagame, who is also Commander-in-Chief of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), to provide education at the strategic level.

Its inaugural 11-month Course 1-26/27 was officially opened on Friday, September 25, at the NDC-R Bumbogo Campus, bringing together the pioneer cohort, Senior Directing Staff and civilian faculty.

Marizamunda said the establishment of the NDC-R marks a significant step in strengthening professional military education and Rwanda’s defence and security architecture.

He said strategic leadership "goes beyond the tactical and operational levels of warfare”, requiring leaders to understand national objectives and coordinate military, economic, diplomatic and informational instruments in protecting national interests.

Marizamunda urged the pioneer cohort to regard their selection for the programme as a responsibility rather than an award.

He challenged them to "think broadly and critically” and engage in intellectual debate, saying the programme should help them develop the clarity of thought and strategic vision expected of senior leaders.

The minister also called on the Senior Directing Staff and civilian faculty to maintain professional rigour while supporting impactful research and innovative thinking throughout the course.

He further noted that the opening of the college represented more than the launch of an academic programme, describing it as "a statement of Rwanda’s commitment to professional military education, national security and strategic leadership.”