UPDF, RDF Proximity Commanders Commit to Strengthen Border Security Cooperation

Summary:

• Major Kiconco Tabaro, the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division Public Information Officer, revealed that the conference identified priority areas, including mobilizing and sensitizing border communities and conducting joint military training exercises.

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MUSANZE: The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) proximity commanders have made key resolutions to enhance coordination and cooperation along their shared border.

The decisions were reached during a security conference held at the Classic Resort Lodge in Nyakinama, Musanze District, Rwanda on 30 November 2024.

Major Kiconco Tabaro, the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division Public Information Officer, revealed that the conference identified priority areas, including mobilizing and sensitizing border communities and conducting joint military training exercises.

“These initiatives aim to bolster efforts against cross-border and transnational crimes”. He said.

“The joint training exercises will address tactical and operational challenges, ensuring preparedness and readiness to handle any border-related situations effectively. These efforts emphasize coordination, togetherness, and the sharing of information and intelligence between the two armies,” Major Tabaro explained.

Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga, the UPDF Commander Land Forces, underscored the importance of collaboration during his remarks at the conference’s closure. He stressed that the cooperation between the two forces is vital for addressing security challenges that could hinder the socio-economic transformation of border communities.

“Regular meetings and proposed training exercises are crucial. Uganda and Rwanda are brothers, we need each other in trade and security for the prosperity of our people. We are the same people and must remain united,” Lt. Gen. Muhanga emphasized.

He also highlighted the positive outcomes of ongoing engagements since the first proximity commanders’ meeting in Nyagatare, Rwanda. “These engagements have significantly improved coordination and cooperation between our forces, enabling us to resolve issues more efficiently,” he said.

Maj. Gen. Vincent Nyakarundi, the RDF Army Chief of Staff, echoed these sentiments, noting that cross-border challenges are now resolved more swiftly through direct coordination.

“Previously, addressing border issues required lengthy processes involving embassies or higher headquarters in Kampala and Kigali. Today, commanders on the ground can resolve such matters quickly through direct meetings or phone calls,” Maj. Gen. Nyakarundi explained.

The meeting concluded with the signing of a joint communiqué by Brig. Gen. Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division, and Brig. Gen. Frank Mutembe, Commander of the RDF 2 Infantry Division. The communiqué outlined the resolutions and timelines for their implementation.

High-ranking military officials in attendance included Maj. Gen. James Birungi, UPDF Chief of Defence Intelligence; Col. Regis Katarayiha, RDF Head of Defence Intelligence; Brig. Gen. Pascal Muhizi, Commander of the RDF 5 Infantry Division; Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Shillingi, Uganda’s Defence Attaché to Rwanda; Rwanda’s Defence Attaché to Uganda; as well as brigade and battalion commanders, intelligence officers, and liaison officers from both sides.