Rwanda is hosting a five-day Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) meeting aimed at validating a draft framework for joint operations among regional air forces.
The meeting, running from June 15 to 19, 2026, was officially opened by Brigadier General Louis Kanobayire, Commandant of the Rwanda Air Force Academy, on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff of the Rwanda Defence Force.
It brings together experts from EASF member states, including Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Ethiopia, to review and harmonize key operational documents designed to strengthen air power capabilities across the region.
Discussions are also focusing on improving coordination in disaster response and humanitarian assistance operations, particularly in situations requiring rapid regional deployment.
Brig Gen Kanobayire said the meeting reflects the commitment of member states to deepen regional cooperation and enhance preparedness for emergencies and disasters affecting civilian populations.
The Eastern Africa Standby Force is one of Africa’s regional peace support mechanisms mandated to prepare, coordinate, and deploy operations in support of stability and security across Eastern Africa.
