EDITOR
In a landmark display of solidarity and regional cooperation, the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) held their first-ever “Proximity Game” on Saturday, May 31st, at Kyamate Playground in Ntungamo Municipality. The football match, witnessed by thousands of enthusiastic civilians and military personnel, ended in a thrilling penalty shootout that saw UPDF’s 2nd Infantry Division edge out RDF’s 5th Infantry Division 4–3.
While UPDF claimed the trophy, the true victory belonged to the renewed spirit of brotherhood and unity between the two nations.
The day kicked off with a colorful joint march through Ntungamo town, led by the UPDF brass band. Dignitaries from both countries included Maj. Gen. Paul Muhanguzi (UPDF), Brig. Gen. Pascal Muhizi (RDF), Brig. Gen. Richard Karemire (UPDF), Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Shillingi (Uganda’s Defence Attaché in Rwanda), and Col. Emmanuel Ruzindana (Rwanda’s Defence Attaché in Uganda).
Lt. Gen. Owoyesigire highlighted the symbolic significance of Kyamate, linking it to Uganda’s liberation journey and Rwanda’s support through historical ties, notably mentioning Presidents Yoweri Museveni and Paul Kagame as comrades-in-arms during their respective struggles for freedom.
Beyond the pitch, the event showcased military-community partnership with commemorative tree planting to emphasize environmental stewardship, and a large-scale medical camp offering HIV testing, Hepatitis screening, malaria treatment, and blood donation services—led by the UPDF medical team in collaboration with Ntungamo Red Cross and Rukungiri Blood Bank.
Prominent local leaders present included Ntungamo RDC Mr. Isiah Kanyamahane, Woman MP Kamateneti Bata, Mayor Jackjex Kafureka, Assistant DHO Beatrice Chemusto, and representatives of religious and community organizations. Military veterans and senior figures like Brig. Gen. Sam Kakuru, Brig. Gen. (Rtd) Tumwebaze Okello, and PLU spokesperson Mr. Savimbi also graced the occasion.
The RDF will host the next round of joint sports activities in Rwanda, reinforcing a growing culture of cooperation, trust-building, and people-centered diplomacy between the two armed forces.
