KIGALI, RWANDA – The delegation of Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) officers is in Rwanda for the 7th Proximity Commanders’ Security Conference, a pivotal bi-annual meeting aimed at bolstering peace and security along the shared border.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The officers, led by Major General Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the 2nd Infantry Division, were officially received at the Cyanika one-stop border post by their counterpart, Major General Ruki Karusisi, who heads the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) delegation.
The three-day meeting brings together commanders, intelligence officers, and staff officers from both division headquarters to conduct a thorough review of the security situation along the Uganda–Rwanda common border.
The commanders will assess the implementation of resolutions from previous meetings and work to strengthen joint mechanisms designed to maintain peace, stability, and good neighbourliness.
In his opening remarks, Major General Paul Muhanguzi underscored the critical role of the proximity commanders’ framework in fostering trust and ensuring the timely resolution of cross-border concerns.
He noted that the measurable progress in bilateral relations reflects military professionalism, adding that well-disciplined forces serve as a foundation for regional stability and prosperity.
“The progress we have registered in previous engagements reflects the maturity and professionalism of our forces. Disciplined forces guided by clear command intent can lead to peaceful coexistence and development of the region,” Maj Gen Muhanguzi stated.
The UPDF 2nd Division Commander reaffirmed the commitment of both forces to follow the guidance of their national leadership while keeping communication channels open.
He emphasized that commanders on both sides remain fully dedicated to timely engagement and proactive measures to prevent cross-border incidents.
The Commander of the RDF 2nd Infantry Division, Brigadier General Deo Rusanganwa, highlighted the conference as a vital platform for sustained dialogue between the two militaries.
He noted that these engagements continue to strengthen trust and enhance coordination along the shared frontier by reinforcing communication between field commanders.
The sustained interaction, he added, ensures the timely resolution of incidents and remains crucial for preventing misunderstandings and fostering good neighbourliness.
“The RDF-UPDF Proximity meeting remains a vital confidence-building platform. It reinforces coordination between our field commanders, strengthens communication channels, and ensures timely resolution of incidents along our common border,” Brig Gen Rusanganwa said.
Beyond the military discussions, the conference serves as a cornerstone of Uganda-Rwanda cooperation, with the leaders reaffirming their shared commitment to regional stability.
The military delegations received a briefing from Rwanda’s Northern Province leadership, led by Governor Hon. Maurice Mugabowagahunde, covering the province’s tourism potential, industrialisation, and other key developments.
Following the briefings, the delegations were taken on a guided tour of the Musanze Industrial Park, a significant contributor to the area’s economic growth.
Other key military personnel from both nations attending the conference include the RDF 2nd and 5th Division commanders, brigade commanders, battalion commanders, and intelligence officers.
The gathering also features the Defence Advisor of Rwanda to Uganda, Colonel Emmanuel Ruzindana, and the Defence Advisor of Uganda to Rwanda, Brigadier General Dr. Emmanuel Shillingi.
