Rwanda and Uganda Military Leaders Collaborate on Border Security Assessment

Rwanda Defence Force and Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces held their fourth Proximity Commanders’ meeting in Mbarara, Uganda, from March 20-22, 2025. The session focused on reviewing the security situation along their common border and addressing challenges that affect border communities. Key military leaders expressed commitment to enhancing collaboration and mitigating illegal cross-border activities, highlighting the importance of ongoing dialogue between the nations.

On March 20, 2025, military leaders from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) convened their fourth Proximity Commanders’ meeting in Mbarara, Uganda. The purpose of this meeting was to evaluate the security situation along their common border, addressing issues that affect local communities and ensuring effective security measures.

This three-day session included notable attendees such as Brig Gen Pascal Muhizi, the RDF infantry division commander, and Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, the UPDF second infantry division commander. The meeting also marked the presence of Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces of the UPDF, who arrived in Rwanda the same day.

During the discussions, both military delegations reviewed progress on implementing recommendations from their previous meetings, focusing on countering illegal cross-border activities and other contemporary security threats. They aimed to foster a secure environment for collaborative efforts between the border communities of both nations.

Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi acknowledged the commitment of both governments and military leadership to these meetings, stating the importance of collaboration in enhancing border security. “We are here to assess ourselves on the progress that has been made in creating a conducive environment for the prosperity of our border communities,” he commented, highlighting the significant achievements since the initiative’s inception.

Brig Gen Muhizi, leading the Rwandan delegation, expressed appreciation for the warm welcome and noted the successful outcomes of previous meetings in addressing cross-border issues. Prior to the meeting, delegations visited Ntungamo District, where local leaders underscored the benefits of joint security efforts aimed at solving shared challenges and enhancing socio-economic collaboration.

The recent meeting between the RDF and UPDF underscored the commitment of both military forces to strengthen border security and address illegal cross-border activities. The collaborative efforts demonstrate mutual recognition of the importance of a secure environment for local communities, ensuring ongoing dialogue and strategic planning between the two nations. The productive outcomes of prior meetings further reinforce the significance of continued cooperation in tackling shared security challenges.

Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw