The Rwanda Defence Force and Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces held their fourth Proximity Commanders’ meeting in Mbarara from March 20-22, 2025, focusing on security along the Rwanda-Uganda border. Key discussions included addressing illegal cross-border activities and enhancing collaboration among border communities. Both commanders expressed gratitude for the ongoing meetings and the positive outcomes achieved since their initiation.
On March 20, 2025, the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) convened their fourth Proximity Commanders’ meeting in Mbarara, Uganda. This meeting aimed to assess the current security situation along the Rwanda-Uganda border, while addressing challenges affecting border communities. The session coincided with a visit from General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces of the UPDF.
Attending the three-day meeting were Brigadier General Pascal Muhizi, commander of the RDF infantry divisions, and Major General Paul Muhanguzi, commander of the UPDF Second Infantry Division, along with their respective staff. The meeting provided an opportunity to review the progress made since previous meetings in tackling illegal cross-border activities and other security threats.
Both delegations emphasized the need to create an environment conducive to collaboration among border communities, while working to mitigate illicit cross-border activities. Major General Muhanguzi expressed his appreciation for the leadership of the two nations in maintaining dialogue, stating, “This kind of meeting is a building block to strengthen our brotherly relationship.”
Brigadier General Muhizi echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the positive results from prior meetings in countering cross-border crimes. Prior to the official commencement of the meeting, both delegations made a courtesy visit to local leaders in Ntungamo District, including Chairman Samuel Mucunguzi, who praised the joint efforts in addressing shared challenges and enhancing socio-economic collaboration between the two nations.
The recent military commanders’ meeting between the Rwanda Defence Force and the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces underscores the commitment of both nations to improve security and cooperation along their shared border. With ongoing discussions and strategies in place to combat illegal activities, there is optimism for enhanced collaboration that will benefit border communities. The fruitful outcomes of this and previous meetings indicate strong leadership support and a shared vision for security and prosperity in the region.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
