RDF AND TPDF CONCLUDE 14TH PROXIMITY COMMANDERS’ MEETING IN NGOMA DISTRICT

Ngoma, 04 December 2025

Today, the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) concluded the 14th Proximity Commanders’ Security Meeting held from 02 to 04 December 2025, in Ngoma District, Eastern Province, reaffirming the shared commitment to safeguarding security and stability along the Rwanda and Tanzania border.

These meetings are held every three months and provide a structured mechanism for commanders from both countries to review the previous session’s outcomes, assess the present security context, and plan coordinated measures to address emerging threats and cross-border challenges.

Over the course of the 14th meeting, delegations reviewed matters arising since the previous (13th) session held in September 2025 in Ngara, Tanzania, including progress on agreed-upon border-security initiatives, responses to illicit cross-border activities, and measures protecting border communities.

In his remarks, Major General Ruki Karusisi, Commander of the RDF 5th Infantry Division, expressed appreciation for the solidarity and constructive engagements demonstrated by both sides. “The RDF and TPDF have a long-standing tradition of cooperation rooted in mutual respect, professionalism, and a shared understanding of the importance of regional stability. Our two nations enjoy cordial relations, and the collaboration between our defence forces is one of the pillars supporting that relationship. Through forums like this one, we ensure that our coordination remains strong, our communication channels remain open, and our ability to jointly address challenges remains effective.”

Brigadier General Gabriel Elias Kwiligwa, Commander of the TPDF 202 Infantry Brigade, who was also the head of TPDF delegation, commended the conduct and spirit of the meeting, noting that the quarterly mechanism continues to reinforce trust and operational coordination between the two forces.

"We appreciate the professionalism, openness, and hospitality demonstrated throughout this meeting. Productive engagements between our two forces reflect our shared commitment to maintaining a secure border and addressing any challenges collectively". He said.

The meeting concluded with renewed commitments to continue information and intelligence sharing and conduct coordinated patrols in designated areas. Both sides reiterated that cooperation between RDF and TPDF is essential not only for national security but also for the safety and well-being of border communities.