The sixth Proximity Commanders’ Meeting between the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) opened on Tuesday in Kabale District, with senior commanders from both countries reaffirming their commitment to strengthening cross-border security cooperation.
The session, attended by defence attachés from both sides, aims to address persistent security challenges along the Uganda-Rwanda border through direct engagement between field commanders.
Ahead of the meeting, the delegations paid a courtesy visit to the Kabale District offices, where local leaders briefed them on the district’s development strides. The officials commended the two forces for maintaining peaceful relations and pledged continued collaboration.
Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the UPDF 2nd Division, welcomed the RDF delegation and underscored the importance of sustained military cooperation in promoting regional peace.
“This platform allows us to engage frankly, confront issues jointly, and agree on coordinated solutions,” he said, calling for expansion of joint exercises and training programmes to enhance interoperability.
Brig Gen Justus Majyambere, Commander of the RDF 5th Division and head of the Rwandan delegation, said the continued engagements were a sign of the growing maturity between the two forces.
“These meetings reflect our shared commitment, mutual cooperation and sustained engagement. RDF and UPDF remain the bedrock of peace, stability and national development in our countries,” he said.
He thanked the leadership of both armies for supporting efforts to address cross-border challenges through dialogue rather than confrontation.
The proximity meetings, which rotate between the two countries, are part of broader confidence-building measures following years of tension along the border.
