Uganda, Rwanda armies reinforce cross-border military cooperation

A military delegation from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 2nd Infantry Division, led by Division Commander Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, is in Rwanda for the Proximity Commanders’ meeting in Nyagatare District.

The UPDF delegation was received at the Kagitumba One-Stop Border Post on June 18 by Brig Gen Pascal Muhizi, Commander of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) 5th Infantry Division.

A media release from the UPDF states that during the official opening ceremony held at Epic Hotel in Nyagatare, Maj Gen Muhanguzi highlighted the ongoing engagements between the UPDF and RDF, which he said are aligned with the objectives of the Joint Permanent Commission held in Kigali in March 2024.

He also appreciated other frameworks aimed at enhancing border community prosperity, ensuring security, and supporting regional development.

Additionally, Muhanguzi expressed appreciation for the hospitality extended to the Ugandan delegation.

“I am grateful for the friendship we enjoy and the ongoing efforts to strengthen it,” said Maj Gen Muhanguzi.

The host, Brig Gen Paskali Muhizi, welcomed the UPDF team and noted that the presence of the UPDF team in Nyagatare is a sign of mutual dedication to defence cooperation.

“The forward-thinking leadership, firm dedication to peace, and commitment to regional unity and integration have fostered the political will and supportive atmosphere necessary for our Defence Forces to collaborate effectively,” said Brig Gen Muhizi.

He further credited Presidents Paul Kagame and Yoweri Museveni, whom he said provide the foundation on which such military engagements are built.

The delegations reaffirmed their commitment to uphold the strategic vision of their respective Heads of State and to follow the guidance of the Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Defence Staff.

In another engagement, the UPDF delegation paid a courtesy call at Nyagatare District headquarters, where they had a meeting with the district’s Vice Mayor, Mr Matsiko Gozanga.

“We are eager to foster strong ties and cooperation between our district and neighbouring districts on the Ugandan side. We share experiences and look forward to a productive exchange,” said Mr Gozanga, who also emphasised the role of such meetings in strengthening mutual understanding and collaboration.

Also present at the meeting were; Brig Gen Frank Mutembe, Commander of the RDF 2nd Infantry Division,  Brig Gen Dr Emmanuel Shillingi, Uganda’s Defence Advisor to Rwanda, Col Emmanuel Ruzindana, Rwanda’s Defence Advisor to Uganda as well as Brigade Commanders and Intelligence Officers from both UPDF 2nd Division and RDF 5th Division.

Both delegations acknowledged meaningful strides in joint security operations, particularly in intelligence sharing, coordinated military activities and collaborative social initiatives.

These include a recent friendly football match between UPDF and RDF at Kyamate Playground in Ntungamo District, as well as community sensitisation and continuous engagement with stakeholders along the Uganda–Rwanda border.

On June 19th, the UPDF delegation visited the Mulindi Liberation Struggle Museum in Gicumbi District.