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Uganda and Rwanda officers pose for a photo after the meeting
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By Our Reporter
Bushenyi –
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 taking place in Nyagatare District.
The delegation was received at the Kagitumba One-Stop Border Post by Brig Gen Pascal Muhizi, the 5th Infantry Division Commander of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF).
Speaking at the opening ceremony held at Epic Hotel, Maj Gen Muhanguzi thanked the RDF leadership for the warm reception and reiterated the importance of such engagements in strengthening bilateral ties.
“I am deeply grateful for the friendship we enjoy and the ongoing efforts to strengthen it,” he said.
The UPDF and RDF Military Officers meeting in Nyagatare Rwanda
According to a statement issued on 18th June 2025 by Maj Kiconco Tabaro, the UPDF 2nd Division Spokesperson, the Proximity Commanders' Meeting aims to deepen defence and security cooperation between the two neighbouring countries. Discussions focus on joint border operations, intelligence sharing, regional peace, and strengthening civil-military relations along the Uganda–Rwanda border.
Brig Gen Muhizi praised the initiative, describing the meeting as a reflection of the strong political will demonstrated by the Heads of State.
“Their forward-thinking leadership and dedication to peace have created the atmosphere necessary for our Defence Forces to collaborate effectively,” he said.
The UPDF delegation also paid a courtesy call at the Nyagatare District headquarters, where they met Vice Mayor Matsiko Gozanga. He acknowledged the critical role played by the military in implementing the outcomes of regional cooperation frameworks.
“We are eager to foster strong ties and cooperation between our district and neighbouring districts on the Ugandan side,” he said.
As part of efforts to strengthen social bonds between the forces, a recent friendly football match was held at Kyamate Playground in Ntungamo District, pitting the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division against the RDF 5th Infantry Division. The game ended in a 1–1 draw and was hailed as a demonstration of the camaraderie between the two forces.
Both delegations reaffirmed their commitment to the vision of their respective Heads of State and the strategic guidance of their Chiefs of Defence. They pledged to maintain continuous dialogue and pursue joint initiatives that contribute to peace, security, and community development.
The UPDF delegation is scheduled to visit the Mulindi Liberation Struggle Museum in Gicumbi District today, 19th June 2025.
Present at the meeting were Brig Gen Frank Mutembe, RDF 2nd Infantry Division Commander; 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 forces.
Torch Media Africa
