UPDF & RDF in a 3-day cross-border security meeting

On 28 May 2024, a delegation from UPDF 2^nd Division arrived in Nyagatare district in the Republic of Rwanda for a 3-day engagement with Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) 2^nd and 5^th Division proximity commanders.

The UPDF delegation led by 2^nd Division Commander, Brig Gen Paul Muhanguzi, was in Rwanda for the 3 days meeting of RDF and UPDF deployed along the two countries’ common border to discuss border area’s security aspects including cross – border criminal activities and also foster existing relationship between RDF and UPDF. 

This is according to a statement released by Maj Kiconco Tabaro, the UPDF 2^nd Division Public Information Officer.

The RDF Army Chief of Staff, Maj Gen Vincent Nyakarundi who represented RDF Chief of Defence Staff officiated at the opening ceremony and appreciated the UPDF’s steadfast efforts to preserve security and ensure coordination along common borders.

“On behalf of the RDF leadership, we appreciate the UPDF’s steadfast efforts to preserve security and ensure coordination along our common borders. As close neighbours, we must uphold our special relationship and address security challenges. As common border proximity commanders, you will have a productive discussion and take appropriate measures,” said Maj Gen Vincent Nyakarundi. 

The statement adds that the UPDF delegation also visited the Nyagatare district office, and interacted with mayor Gasana Stephen. 

Both the RDF and UPDF delegations are discussing several common borders security issues and looking into existing gaps with the view of working out remedies to challenges thereon.

Brig Gen Paul Muhanguzi appreciated the cordial guidance given to operational commanders by the two Heads of State of Rwanda and Uganda.

“I would like to thank the President of the Republic of Uganda HE Yoweri Museveni and the President of the Republic of Rwanda HE Paul Kagame for allowing us as proximity commanders to look into cross – border security issues and be part of mechanism for resolving and bridging the gaps that may exist,” said Brig Gen Muhanguzi.

Maj Tabaro said the team on Wednesday 29^th May also had an engagement with the manager of Gatuna Border Post on Ugandan side and the Mayor of Gicumbi District on the Rwandan side.