PAR : The RDF is currently deployed in different parts of Africa , are you exporting security ?
We are not exporting security . We are simply exercising values and principles ; namely the Responsibility To Protect ( R2P ) and the Kigali Principles . These two are complementary and primarily focus on the protection of civilians at risk of loss of life . It is the RDF philosophy ; one that is derived from our history ; a history of fighting genocide perpetrators and protecting civilians .
PAR : Why is Rwanda in Mozambique ?
Rwanda is in Mozambique because it was requested by the Mozambican government to support them fight IS-linked terrorists locally known as Alshabab and Ansar Al Sunnah . They had ravaged the northern province of Cabo Delgado , killing close to 3000 persons and displacing over 800,000 . Also , the threat of Islamic extremism and terrorism in the region is an issue of international concern . So , we intervened because it is the right thing to do . When it comes to protecting civilians threatened by violence , our response has always been swift . It is also part of Rwanda ’ s commitment to the Kigali Principles of 2015 . The principles primarily focus on immediate response to situations that warrant the protection of civilians at risk . This can be through multilateral arrangements via the UN or the AU or through bilateral engagements as between Rwanda and the Central African Republic or between Rwanda and Mozambique .
PAR : Fighting terrorism successfully involves winning hearts and minds . How is the RDF doing on this front ?
Winning hearts and minds should start with solving the problems that led to the insurgency in the first place . Therefore , in order to successfully defeat an insurgency , one must solve the underlying socio-economic problems in the society . These include unemployment and poverty , lack of security of person and property , and lack of infrastructure . In sum , it entails protecting communities from these problems . The re-establishment of security immediately allows the public to start engaging in development-related activities . This will bring them close to those whom they credit with the new developments , and that is the military . When we offer free medical services ; build schools and hospitals ; clean the streets and neighbourhoods , we not only win the hearts and minds of the population in the affected areas . We silence the extremist insurgents who will then have nothing better to offer to the community .
PAR : Let ’ s turn to Central Africa . The RDF deployed in the Central African Republic when the rebels were within a short distance of the capital city , Bangui . After the deployment , the rebels were repulsed . Now we hardly hear about any serious insecurity threatening the country . What did the RDF do there ?
As you may recall , the Government of CAR asked Rwanda to deploy a security force with an offensive posture . We carried out joint offensive operations targeting the rebellious factions and forces that threatened to capture the capital city .
We succeeded in halting the forces opposed to peace , ensured peaceful presidential elections , and protected the UN peacekeepers who were under threat of attack .
We created a conducive environment for multilateral support systems to operate effectively , including UN peacekeeping activities .
PAR : How do you balance the geo-strategic interests of major powers like Russia and France in a country that has been historically dominated by outsiders ?
We focus on our mission . We do not concern ourselves with the foreign relations of the host nation , just as we do not concern ourselves with internal political matters .
PAR : In both Mozambique and CAR , these are big territories that must be difficult for small contingents to control . How does the RDF manage to intervene and impose order in such large territories ?
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