Building Capacity, Demonstrating Commitment

During a formal working meeting, General Claudiu-Mădălin Tamaș, Force Commander of the European Union Training Mission in the Central African Republic (EUTM-RCA), met with General Zéphirin Mamadou, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces and Commander of the Autonomous Defence Zone of Bangui. Their discussions focused on the continuation of training activities, the assessment of progress achieved, and the future development of training programs for officers and non-commissioned officers. These exchanges formed part of a broader, sustained effort to support the long-term development of the Central African Armed Forces (FACA).

Both parties reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening a sustainable military education system, with particular emphasis on empowering Central African instructors and preparing future military leaders. The meeting also demonstrated the depth of cooperation between EUTM-RCA and the FACA, built on regular dialogue, mutual respect, and close coordination.

Beyond these formal exchanges, a series of high-level visits further underscored the relevance and impact of the mission. The visit of the French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs provided an opportunity to present the mission’s core activities and future objectives. Such engagement highlighted the strategic importance attributed to the mission at the international level and reinforced its visibility and credibility.

Similarly, the visit of Lieutenant-General Michiel Van der Laan, Director General of the European Union Military Staff and Director of the Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC), constituted a significant moment of strategic dialogue. Accompanied by General Tamaș, he held discussions with General Mamadou at Camp Kassai, focusing on the progress achieved in defence reform and the close cooperation between EUTM-RCA and the FACA. These exchanges reaffirmed the European Union’s enduring support for the development of inclusive, accountable, and professional defence institutions in the Central African Republic.

During his visit, Lieutenant-General Van der Laan also engaged directly with cadets at the officers’ school in Camp Kassai, commending their motivation and encouraging them to serve with integrity, competence, and a strong sense of duty. In addition, he met with EUTM-RCA personnel, expressing his appreciation for their professionalism and commitment.

These mission visits are of particular importance. They not only provide strategic guidance and political support but also serve to validate the mission’s efforts on the ground. By fostering direct engagement with national authorities, military personnel, and trainees, such visits reinforce trust, enhance coordination, and ensure alignment between strategic objectives and operational realities.

In this context, the relevance of the mission is clearly demonstrated. Through sustained cooperation, continuous evaluation, and visible high-level engagement, EUTM-RCA remains a key contributor to the strengthening of the Central African Armed Forces and to the broader objective of stability and long-term development in the Central African Republic.

EUTM RCA

EUTM-RCA contributes to reform the Central African Republic defence sector within the framework of a wider Security Sector Reform, in close coordination with other International Support Missions such as the EU Delegation in Bangui, the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) and the European Union Advisory Mission (EUAM). The mission support the Central African authorities and is engaged in three domains: strategic advice, operational training and education.