The Ugandan Army in an engagement with the Rwandan Army to enhance security in cross-border areas.

RWANDA-KIGALI: The Officials of the Uganda Peoples Defence Force (UPDF) and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) have convened in Nyagatare -Rwanda for a three days cross-border security meeting aimed at enhancing cooperation and combating crime.

The UPDF 2nd Division Public Information Officer Maj. Kiconco Tabaro confirmed to Media that a delegation from UPDF 2 Division arrived in Nyagatare district in the Republic of Rwanda on Monday 28th May 2024 for an engagement with Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) 2nd and 5 Division proximity commanders.

Maj. Kiconco Tabaro said that the UPDF delegation led by 2nd Division Commander, Brig Gen Paul Muhanguzi, are in Rwanda engaging the two countries Army Forces deployed along the common borders to discuss border area’s security aspects including cross -border criminal activities and also foster existing relationship between RDF and UPDF. 

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

“On behalf of the RDF leadership, we appreciate the UPDF steadfast efforts to preserve security and ensure coordination along our common borders as close neighbors, 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. 

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 for allowing us as proximity commanders to look into cross border security issues and be part of a mechanism for resolving and bridging the gaps that may exist. This will facilitate the involvement of all stakeholders in finding solutions to challenges that affect border communities, in fact this will boost cross border trade once all the legal requirements are adhered to” said Muhanguzi.

On Wednesday 29th of May 2024, the UPDF had an engagement with the manager of Gatuna border post and the Mayor of Gicumbi District whose discussions together were cordial and fruitful.