On May 19, 2025, the inaugural International Security Conference on Africa (ISCA) opened its doors in Kigali, Rwanda, marking a pivotal moment for the continent’s defense and security landscape.
The two-day forum, held under the theme “Reshaping Africa’s Landscape in a Dynamic, Complex Global Environment,” gathered a broad spectrum of participants from 17 countries, including security and intelligence experts, policymakers, private security companies, and civil society representatives.
This diverse assembly converged with a shared goal: to confront Africa’s pressing security challenges and forge a path toward greater collaboration in an increasingly unpredictable world.
At the heart of the conference was Rwanda’s bold display of locally manufactured defense weapons, a testament to the nation’s growing role in the global security arena. The Rwanda Engineering and Manufacturing Corporation (REMCO), established in 2018 and operating from the Kigali Special Economic Zone, took center stage as it unveiled an array of advanced weaponry.
These included the Jericho 941 Pistol, a semi-automatic handgun prized for its ergonomic design; the Galil ACE Rifle, a modernized assault rifle recognizable by its distinctive angled magazine; the Tavor X95 Rifle, a compact bullpup rifle from the renowned Tavor family; and the DAN .338 Sniper Rifle, a long-range precision rifle distinguished by its extended barrel and scope.
Alongside these, REMCO showcased sniper rifles, assault rifles, machine guns, military tanks, and pistols, reflecting a comprehensive approach to defense production.
This impressive lineup emerged from a strategic partnership with Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), an Israeli firearms manufacturer with deep roots dating back to 1933. Originally the Magen division of Israel Military Industries Ltd., IWI transitioned to private ownership in 2005 and has since earned a global reputation for crafting combat-proven small arms relied upon by militaries and law enforcement agencies worldwide.
The collaboration between REMCO and IWI has yielded weapons now in active use by the Rwandan Defence Force (RDF), the Israeli army, and forces in other nations. Designed with a focus on accuracy and precision, these modern weapons enable sharper target selection while minimizing collateral damage—a crucial advancement for contemporary conflict zones.
Beyond Rwanda’s contributions, the ISCA exhibition drew at least 10 other defense companies from across the globe, enriching the event with a variety of perspectives and technologies.
Among them were Turkey’s Otokar and Aselsan, which brought their own innovations to the fore. Otokar presented the Arma II Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) and the Cobra II armored vehicle, showcasing robust designs tailored for modern warfare.
The participation of representatives from 17 countries further amplified the event’s reach and relevance. Security experts mingled with policymakers, while private security firms and civil society voices added depth to the dialogue. Together, they explored how Africa could navigate its complex security environment, from regional conflicts to emerging global threats, through cooperation and innovation.
Rwanda’s decision to host the ISCA and showcase its homegrown defense capabilities sent a clear message: Africa is ready to take an active role in shaping its security future. The weapons on display, with their emphasis on precision and reduced unintended harm, reflected a thoughtful approach to modern defense needs. Meanwhile, the conference itself provided a vital platform for exchanging knowledge and building partnerships, drawing together a wide range of actors committed to tackling the continent’s unique challenges.
As the two-day forum unfolded in Kigali, it became evident that the ISCA was more than an exhibition of military hardware. It was a bold step toward redefining Africa’s place in the global security conversation, blending local ingenuity with international collaboration to create a more secure and stable future.
