Ethiopian National Defence Force Chief Visits Rwanda to Strengthen Military Ties

High-Level Military Engagement Between Ethiopia and Rwanda

Kigali, Rwanda – Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, Chief of the General Staff of the Ethiopian National Defence Force (ENDF), arrived in Rwanda for a four-day working visit from April 13 to 16, 2025. The high-profile visit aims to enhance bilateral defence cooperation between the two nations.

Key Meetings and Discussions

Upon arrival, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula was received by Rwanda’s Chief of Defence Staff, General MK Mubarakh, at the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Headquarters in Kimihurura. The Ethiopian military leader also held a courtesy meeting with Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Hon. Juvenal Marizamunda.

The discussions focused on exploring new areas of collaboration in defence and security sectors, reinforcing both countries’ commitment to regional stability and peace. This visit follows General Mubarakh’s trip to Ethiopia in March 2025, where the two nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation.

Honoring Rwanda’s History

As part of his itinerary, the Ethiopian military chief will visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to pay respects to victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. He will also tour the Campaign Against Genocide Museum, highlighting the importance of historical awareness in preventing future atrocities.

This exchange marks another milestone in the growing military partnership between Ethiopia and Rwanda, with both nations demonstrating their shared vision for a secure and stable East African region.

Source: RNA News