Summary:
The three-day meeting aims to assess the current security situation, address challenges affecting border communities, and strengthen security along the Uganda-Rwanda border.
MBARARA: The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) have convened in Mbarara City for the fourth Proximity Commanders’ meeting.
The three-day meeting aims to assess the current security situation, address challenges affecting border communities, and strengthen security along the Uganda-Rwanda border.
Among the attendees are RDF Infantry Division Commanders and staff deployed along the border, led by Brig. Gen. Pascal Muhizi, the 5th Division Commander. The UPDF delegation is headed by Maj. Gen. Paul Muhanguzi, the 2nd Infantry Division Commander.
During the opening ceremony at Igongo Country Hotel and Cultural Centre in Mbarara on Thursday, Maj. Gen. Paul Muhanguzi expressed gratitude to the RDF Commanders for attending the meeting in Uganda.
“Your presence demonstrates a strong commitment to the vision of our esteemed Heads of State H.E. Gen. Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda, and H.E. Gen. (Rtd) Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of Uganda,” he stated.
He highlighted the progress made in curbing cross-border crime and improving security cooperation.
“Since the initiation of these Proximity Commanders’ meetings, communication between commanders has significantly improved, particularly in addressing cross-border security concerns. I commend all commanders for this milestone,” Maj. Gen. Muhanguzi said.
He also urged continued collaboration among commanders to fulfill the directives of their respective Commanders-in-Chief and Chiefs of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba of the UPDF and Gen. Mubarakh Muganga of the RDF.
“This collaboration will enhance security, strengthen relations among border communities, and contribute to the socio-economic transformation of our nations,” he added.
Brig. Gen. Pascal Muhizi, head of the RDF delegation, expressed appreciation for the warm reception by the UPDF.
“On behalf of my delegation and myself, I sincerely thank you for your hospitality and generosity,” he said.
He acknowledged the significant progress achieved since the inception of the Proximity Commanders’ meetings.
“These interactions are crucial in addressing challenges we encounter along our borders,” he noted, urging commanders and staff officers to maintain their commitment and invest further efforts to achieve their mission.
The meeting is focused on reviewing previous deliberations and evaluating progress in fostering a secure and prosperous environment for border communities and the two nations.
This session will last three days, following previous meetings held in Nyagatare and Musanze in Rwanda, as well as Mbarara City.
