Summary:
- Maj Tabaro revealed that the delegation, led by Brigadier General Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the 2nd Infantry Division, arrived in Rwanda on Thursday.
MUSANZE: A delegation of Uganda People’s Defense Force (UPDF) Commanders is currently in Musanze District, northern Rwanda, for a three-day third Proximity Commanders Security Meeting, according to Major Kiconco Tabaro, the Public Information Officer for the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division.
Maj Tabaro revealed that the delegation, led by Brigadier General Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the 2nd Infantry Division, arrived in Rwanda on Thursday. They were warmly received at Cyanika border post in Kisoro District by Brigadier General Frank Mutembe, Commander of the Rwanda Defence Force’s (RDF) 2nd Infantry Division, and Brigadier General Pascal Muhizi, Commander of RDF’s 5th Infantry Division.
The meeting aims to review resolutions from previous sessions, monitor their implementation, address emerging security challenges affecting border communities, and evaluate broader border security perspectives.
Speaking during the opening day of the conference, Brig Gen Paul Muhanguzi expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended by the RDF.
“On behalf of Uganda People’s Defence Forces and myself, I sincerely appreciate the warm and brotherly welcome we have received, from Cyanika in Kisoro District to Musanze in Rwanda. Thank you very much for this cordial reception,” he said.
Brig Gen Frank Mutembe emphasized the significance of such meetings in tackling challenges faced by border communities.
“These engagements are key to addressing issues such as drug trafficking, illegal border crossings, smuggling, and deforestation,” he said.
The UPDF delegation also held discussions with Mr. Nsengimana Claudien, the Mayor of Musanze District, as well as the Mayors of Gicumbi and Burera Districts. Maj Tabaro noted that these interactions underscored the importance of fostering strong border security measures to enhance prosperity for communities while curbing illegal activities.
Brig Gen Paul Muhanguzi extended special appreciation to the leadership of both the UPDF and RDF, particularly the Chiefs of Defence Forces, for facilitating the meeting. He also thanked the Presidents of Uganda and Rwanda, General Yoweri Museveni and General Paul Kagame, for creating an enabling environment for such collaboration.
“It is a great honor to fulfill the vision of our great leaders, and we continue to work towards ensuring security and prosperity for our border communities,” Brig Gen Muhanguzi remarked.
Maj Tabaro highlighted the progress made since previous meetings held in May 2024 in Nyagatare District, Rwanda, and in November 2024 at Les Vegas Hotel, Mbarara, Uganda.
“Significant strides have been made in information and intelligence sharing between RDF and UPDF proximal formations, joint tactical-level meetings, and increased use of legal crossing points. There has been improved trade, reduced cross-border thefts, and enhanced awareness of drug-related issues among border communities. Other institutions from both governments are also moving in the right direction, ensuring growth and harmony,” Maj Tabaro noted.
