During the two weeks, 18 instructors from different RDF services were trained in the rules of IHL, which they then had to put into practice during simulation exercises to demonstrate how these rules are applied in the field.

From operation planning to the formulation of orders, the evacuation of civilians and wounded people as well as the treatment of persons captured on the battlefield, the instructors had many opportunities, through simulations and case studies, to put their knowledge of IHL into practice.

As Frank Rusagara, commander of the Rwanda Military Academy explained, "the respect and teaching of IHL rules remains essential for RDF because it contributes to the reinforcement of the protection of civilians".

The instructors trained during this course will be deployed in military training institutions in Rwanda. Since 2000, the ICRC in collaboration with the Rwanda Defence Forces, has trained over one hundred fifty instructors in IHL.

(www.icrc.org)