EDITOR
A delegation of Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officers, led by Brig Gen Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the 2nd Infantry Division, arrived in Musanze District, northern Rwanda, for the Third Proximity Commanders’ Meeting. The three-day security conference aims to review and implement resolutions from previous meetings, address emerging security issues affecting border communities, and strengthen bilateral border security.
The UPDF delegation was warmly received at the Cyanika border post by Brig Gen Frank Mutembe, Commander of the 2nd Infantry Division of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), and Brig Gen Pascal Muhizi, Commander of the RDF’s 5th Infantry Division. Brig Gen. Muhanguzi expressed gratitude for the reception, saying, “On behalf of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces and myself, I sincerely appreciate the warm and brotherly welcome extended to us from Cyanika to Musanze. Thank you for this cordial reception.”
The meeting will address key issues, including drug trafficking, illegal border crossings, smuggling, and deforestation, which pose challenges to border communities. Brig Gen. Frank Mutembe emphasized the importance of such forums in addressing these illicit activities and fostering cooperation between the two nations.
The conference also involves engagements with local leaders, including the Mayor of Musanze District, Nsengimana Claudien, and officials from Gicumbi and Burera Districts, to reinforce the need for enhanced security measures that support the prosperity of border communities.
This conference follows previous meetings in Nyagatare, Rwanda, in May 2024 and Mbarara, Uganda, in November 2024. Significant progress has been noted, including improved intelligence sharing, joint tactical-level meetings, increased use of legal border crossings, and enhanced awareness of drug-related issues. These efforts have also contributed to improved trade, reduced cross-border theft, and greater harmony between border communities.
Brig Gen. Muhanguzi commended the Chiefs of Defence Forces and the Heads of State, Gen. Paul Kagame of Rwanda and Gen. Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, for creating an environment that enables collaboration. He highlighted the importance of these security engagements in fulfilling the vision of the two nations’ leaders.
Operational and tactical commanders from both the RDF and UPDF, alongside defense advisors, chiefs of intelligence and security, and other strategic commanders, are attending the conference. The meeting will conclude with remarks from senior officials from both countries, reflecting on progress and charting the way forward.
The UPDF delegation’s visit marks another milestone in the continued cooperation between Uganda and Rwanda, ensuring the safety and prosperity of border communities.
