Relief of the Spanish Contingent in the European Union Training Mission in the Central African Republic

 Since 2016, Spain has been part of EUTM RCA, where a Spanish colonel currently serves as Chief of Staff

The XIX and XX Spanish contingents of the European Union Training Mission in the Central African Republic (EUTM RCA) held the official relief ceremony at Camp Moana military base. The event was presided over by Colonel Nunes, Deputy Mission Force Commander of the mission.

During the military ceremony, the outgoing Chief of Staff of EUTM RCA, Colonel Francisco Javier Álvarez Roy, emphasized Spain’s valuable contribution to the mission and expressed his pride in having served both the European Union and Spain. He also highlighted the mission’s role in strengthening the Central African Armed Forces (FACA) and in promoting regional stability.

The incoming Chief of Staff, Colonel Rafael Guillermo Muñoz Cervantes, reaffirmed his commitment and dedication to facing upcoming operational challenges. These include the completion of the first Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) course, the commencement of the second, the launch of the first Officer course, and the opening of new training facilities at Camp Kassai.

Since its establishment on April 19, 2016, the mission’s mandate has been modified and extended on several occasions. Most recently, its mandate was prolonged until September 2026. The primary objective now is to enhance the leadership capabilities of young FACA officers and NCOs. With the rollout of new training programs, EUTM RCA has entered a critical phase, and within this context, Spanish military personnel are training the next generations of Central African Armed Forces (FACA) officers and NCOs.

Spanish Participation in EUTM RCA

EUTM RCA was launched on July 16, 2016, at the request of the Government of the Central African Republic, within the framework of the European Union's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). EUTM RCA is a non-executive mission aimed at supporting the EU’s efforts to advise the Central African authorities and develop leadership among young military leaders (officers and NCOs) of the Central African Armed Forces (FACA).

In doing so, it contributes to the security sector reform led by the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), thereby enhancing FACA’s capacity to defend its territory and protect its population. 

Currently, Spain contributes seven Army personnel to the mission. The Spanish colonel serves as the mission’s Chief of Staff, while the rest hold key positions at EUTM RCA Headquarters. In total, military personnel from nine EU member states make up the mission, with Spain being the third-largest contributor in terms of deployed personnel.