Central African Republic - Rwanda Relations

Rwanda’s influence in the Central African Republic (CAR) has grown significantly, particularly through its involvement in peacekeeping and security efforts. Rwanda's role in CAR extends beyond military deployments and includes diplomatic and strategic partnerships with the CAR government. Rwanda’s influence in the Central African Republic is significant, particularly in terms of military and security contributions. Its role in stabilizing the country and protecting key political figures has given it a critical position in CAR’s peace efforts. Rwanda’s involvement underscores its growing regional power and its commitment to promoting peace and security across Africa. Rwanda has become a key player in the CAR, at the head of local offices of international organizations (World Bank, United Nations Development Program, World Food Program).

The argument that Rwanda has too much influence in the Central African Republic (CAR) stems from its extensive military and political involvement in the country, which has led some to question the balance of power and sovereignty in CAR. While Rwanda’s presence has been crucial in stabilizing parts of the country, providing security, and countering rebel groups, its deep involvement raises concerns about the potential for overreach and dependency. There is a risk that CAR will not develop its own military or political institutions effectively if it continues to rely on Rwanda for security. This dependency may weaken CAR’s state-building efforts in the long term.

Rwanda has one of the largest foreign military presences in the Central African Republic. This means Rwanda wields substantial control over the security apparatus of the country, potentially sidelining CAR's own military forces. Critics argue that Rwanda's military presence is so prominent that it risks overshadowing CAR's sovereignty. By heavily relying on Rwandan forces, CAR’s government might weaken its own army and internal security capabilities.

Rwanda’s close relationship with President Touadéra and his administration gives it significant political influence. Rwandan troops provide direct protection to President Touadéra, alongside Russia’s Wagner group, reinforcing his power and helping him maintain control in a highly unstable political environment. This close relationship has led to accusations that Rwanda is propping up Touadéra’s regime in exchange for increased political and economic influence. The fact that Rwanda is so closely aligned with CAR’s central government could result in disproportionate influence on CAR's internal politics. Some critics argue that Rwanda may shape policies to its own benefit, rather than for the broader good of the Central African population.

Rwanda’s extensive involvement in CAR has led some to question the sovereignty of the Central African Republic. While Rwanda’s presence has been a stabilizing force, particularly in the face of rebel insurgencies, there are concerns that CAR’s government may become too dependent on foreign forces for its survival. Some critics argue that Rwanda’s influence in CAR, particularly its role in ensuring the security of CAR’s president, amounts to undue foreign interference in CAR’s domestic affairs. If Rwanda's troops play a decisive role in shaping the country's political landscape, this could undermine CAR's ability to make independent decisions.

Rwanda and the Central African Republic (CAR) share interactions, particularly in terms of peacekeeping efforts. Rwanda has been involved in peacekeeping operations in the Central African Republic through the United Nations' missions and other multilateral efforts. The involvement of Rwandan forces in the Central African Republic is part of Rwanda's commitment to regional peace and stability, as well as its active role in African Union and United Nations peacekeeping operations.

Rwanda has contributed troops to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). This peacekeeping mission aims to stabilize the CAR, which has faced civil conflict and instability for several years. Rwanda has also deployed additional forces under bilateral agreements with the CAR government, helping to bolster security in the country. Rwandan troops have been known for their discipline and effectiveness in peacekeeping operations. Its forces have earned a reputation for professionalism, protecting civilians, government institutions, and key infrastructure.

In addition to its contribution to the UN mission, Rwanda has sent troops under a direct bilateral agreement with the CAR government. This includes securing the capital, Bangui, and other strategic locations during periods of heightened conflict. Rwandan troops provide direct security for CAR President Faustin-Archange Touadéra and other high-level officials, showcasing Rwanda's trusted role in safeguarding the central government.

The Central African Republic has experienced prolonged instability, including civil wars and political strife. Rwanda, with its own history of recovery from genocide, has emerged as a regional player in peacekeeping and post-conflict stabilization efforts across Africa, including in the CAR. Rwanda's involvement in the CAR reflects its broader role in African security, peace, and stability initiatives. Rwandan forces have been praised for their significant contributions to stabilizing regions in conflict.

Rwandan troops first deployed to CAR in January 2014. The Rwanda Defence Force is also one of the largest troop contributor to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) since 2014. By 2023 Rwanda had more than 2,000 soldiers serving in CAR under the UN Peacekeeping mission. Rwanda also maintained more than 1000 soldiers deployed in CAR under bilateral agreement. The Government of Rwanda deployed force protection troops to the Central African Republic in December 2020, under an existing bilateral agreement on defense. The deployment is in response to the targeting of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) contingent under the UN Peacekeeping force by rebels supported by François Bozize. Rwandan troops will also contribute to ensure a peaceful and secure general elections scheduled on Sunday 27 December 2020, twenty-two months after the peace agreement which was reached between the government and fourteen armed groups.

Russia and Rwanda sent hundreds of troops into the country after an alleged coup bid that took place ahead of the presidential and parliamentary polls. On Saturday, the government of the CAR accused former president Francois Bozizé of an attempted coup after three powerful rebel groups merged and started to advance on the capital Bangui. Rwanda confirmed the deployment, saying the move was in response to the targeting of its troops in the UN peacekeeping force by rebels supported by Bozizé, who ruled the CAR from 2003 to 2013.

Rwanda National Police (RNP) 10 November 2023, completed the rotation of Formed Police Unit Three (FPU3-1) contingent serving under the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Central African Republic (MINUSCA). The maiden Rwanda FPU3-1 contingent of 180 officers deployed in November 2022 in Bangassou, about 725kms from the capital Bangui, It was replaced by Rwanda FPU3-2.

The Central African Republic on 24 November 2023 enrolled 512 new soldiers into the force after completing five months of basic military training undertaken by Rwanda Defence Force instructors. Among the new soldiers, 49 are women. The ceremony that took place at Bangui’s Camp Kassaï was presided over by H.E Prof Faustin Archange Touadera, the President of Central African Republic and was attended by Maj Gen Wilson Gumisiriza, RDF Mechanised Division Commander on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff. In a statement to the media after the ceremony, President Touadera thanked his counterpart, H.E President Paul Kagame and Rwanda Defence for their support to stabilize Central African Republic.

Speaking during the event, the Rwandan Bilateral Contingent Commander, Col Alphonse Gahima said that the new soldiers were trained to become professionals and change makers in their country. “I want to point out that the discipline, bravery, enthusiasm and stamina you've shown throughout your training are very reassuring for the work you're about to do. For our part, as Instructors, we will continue to provide you with the support you need, to facilitate your learning and enable you to become professional soldiers worthy of the name, as requested by the leadership of FACA and RDF,” said Col Gahima.

Rwanda National Police (RNP) 20 April 2024, started the rotation of three peacekeeping contingents serving under the UN Multidimensional Stabilization Integrated Mission in Central African Republic (MINUSCA). Rwanda Formed Police Unit Two rotation Eight (RWAFPUII-8) operating in Kaga Bandoro was replaced by RWAFPUII-9. RWAFPUII-8 returned home safely later in the afternoon after successfully completing their one year tour-of-duty.

The RDF Army Chief of Staff, Maj Gen Vicent Nyakarundi who was in the Central African Republic to visit Rwandan peacekeepers, on 08 August 2024 visited the Rwandan Peacekeepers under MINUSCA in Bossembélé, Nana Mambele prefectures in the western part of CAR. He commended the peacekeepers for their efforts in protecting civilians and ensuring the free movement of people and goods along the main supply route (MSR 1) connecting Cameroon and the capital city Bangui - the Republic of Central Africa.

The primary mission of Rwandan peacekeepers in Bossembele is to protect civilians and ensure the security of the main supply route connecting Bangui and Cameroon. The country's lack of direct access to a coastline means that the road to the port in Cameroon should be secured but for a long time, the road network was under the control of armed groups, particularly Return, Reclamation, and Rehabilitation (3R) and Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC). These armed groups frequently hindered the free movement of people and goods between Cameroon and CAR. Rwandan peacekeepers have managed to secure the main supply route to ensure free movement of people and goods.

While interacting with Rwandan Peacekeepers, the ACOS conveyed the RDF high command's gratitude to Rwandan peacekeepers for the job they are doing in this area and continue to do. He emphasized the effectiveness of the Rwandan army wherever they are deployed, whether in Rwanda or in friendly countries for peacekeeping missions. He also informed the force that during his meeting with the SRSG and Deputy Force Commander, the MINUSCA leadership appreciated their commitment and professionalism in executing their mandate, even in a challenging environment. The ACOS urged the peacekeepers to continue to maintain that trust by executing their duties with professionalism.

On 05 August 2024, 634 new soldiers, including 55 females, were enrolled in the Central African Republic Armed Forces (FACA) after completing seven months of basic military training. The new soldiers were trained by the Rwanda Defence Force in collaboration with FACA. “This graduation marks the second battalion trained by military instructors from the Rwanda Defence Force, with the ultimate objective of preventing the activities of the enemies of peace. "I have no doubt that the skills acquired during this course will help in protecting the country and its people." Said the General Chief of Staff (FACA) Maj. Gen. Zephlin Mamadou.

Rwanda’s military presence has been critical in stabilizing parts of the CAR that have been ravaged by internal conflict, rebel insurgencies, and political violence. By supporting the government forces, Rwanda helps maintain order and prevent the country from descending into further chaos. Rwandan forces have been instrumental in combat operations against armed groups, particularly during times of election-related unrest. Their presence in areas like Bangui has contributed to limiting the reach of armed rebels and securing major cities.

Rwanda has developed a close political relationship with the government of CAR. The military support extended by Rwanda bolsters CAR’s regime and strengthens the ties between the two nations. Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame and CAR’s President Faustin-Archange Touadéra have maintained a strong partnership, reinforcing Rwanda’s influence on CAR’s internal politics.

Regional Leadership Role: By actively engaging in peacekeeping missions and providing military assistance in the CAR, Rwanda is seen as a leader in African peace and security initiatives. This aligns with President Kagame’s broader vision of Rwanda as a regional power and key player in Africa’s security architecture.

Rwanda’s reputation for well-organized and disciplined forces has enhanced its soft power in the CAR. The success of Rwandan peacekeepers in maintaining security and engaging in humanitarian missions in conflict zones has led to an increase in Rwanda’s international standing. Rwanda’s own experience with post-genocide recovery has given it a unique moral authority in advising and assisting other countries dealing with post-conflict reconstruction, including the CAR.

While Rwanda’s primary influence in CAR has been in the military and diplomatic spheres, there is potential for economic influence to grow, especially through reconstruction efforts or resource development. Rwanda’s expanding role in African regional security might eventually lead to deeper economic and trade ties. Rwanda’s influence in CAR also aligns with broader international objectives, particularly those of the African Union (AU) and the United Nations. Kigali’s involvement enhances its relationship with international partners like France, the United States, and the European Union, who have stakes in CAR’s stabilization.

While Rwanda’s involvement has been largely military and political, some have speculated that it could evolve into economic dominance. CAR is rich in natural resources, including diamonds, gold, and timber. Some critics suggest that Rwanda’s deep involvement could lead to favorable conditions for Rwandan businesses or interests to exploit these resources. This could echo patterns seen in other African countries where foreign military support is followed by economic advantages for the supporting country. As Rwanda strengthens its ties with CAR’s government, it could seek preferential treatment for Rwandan companies or access to CAR’s resources under favorable terms. While there is no concrete evidence of this yet, it remains a concern for critics wary of Rwanda’s increasing footprint in the country.

Rwanda’s extensive influence in CAR has sparked concerns among regional actors and international observers. Some neighboring countries may view Rwanda’s growing role as an attempt to project its power beyond its borders, raising tensions in the region. Rwanda’s assertive role in CAR could shift the regional balance of power in Central Africa. Some nations might view this as an overextension of Rwanda's influence and could become wary of Kigali’s intentions. While Rwanda’s role in peacekeeping has generally been praised, there are concerns that if its influence grows unchecked, it could lead to exploitation or political manipulation, leading to increased scrutiny from international bodies such as the African Union or the United Nations.

In the long term, CAR’s heavy reliance on Rwanda for security could have negative consequences. As Rwanda provides a significant portion of security and stability, CAR’s own institutions—such as its army, police, and judiciary—may not develop sufficiently. This could create a fragile state dependent on foreign intervention for its survival. If CAR’s population or political elite perceive Rwanda’s influence as excessive or exploitative, it could lead to resentment, potentially destabilizing the very peace Rwanda is trying to uphold.

Rwanda’s involvement in the Central African Republic has been crucial in maintaining security and stabilizing the government in a time of crisis. However, critics argue that its influence is becoming too dominant, potentially undermining CAR’s sovereignty and long-term stability. While Rwanda’s role has brought short-term peace, the challenge will be ensuring that CAR can eventually stand on its own without excessive reliance on foreign forces, and that Rwanda’s involvement remains constructive rather than exploitative.