RDF AND TPDF CONCLUDE 15TH PROXIMITY COMMANDERS’ MEETING IN KARAGWE

The Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) today concluded the 15th Proximity Commanders’ Meeting after three days of deliberations in Karagwe District, aimed at strengthening cross-border security and bilateral military cooperation.

The meeting brought together commanders from the RDF 5th Infantry Division and the TPDF 202 Infantry Brigade, both deployed along the Rwanda–Tanzania border. Discussions focused on assessing progress made since the previous session held in Rwanda from 2–4 December 2025 and addressing ongoing security challenges.

Chaired by Brigadier General Gabriel Elias Kwiligwa, Commander of TPDF 202 Infantry Brigade and his counterpart, Major General Ruki Karusisi, Commander of RDF 5th Infantry Division, the meeting was also attended by defence attachés from both countries.

Participants reviewed key cross-border concerns, including smuggling, drug trafficking, illegal fishing along proximity water bodies and illegal border crossings among others.

Both delegations agreed on a range of measures to enhance cooperation, including strengthening information sharing, conducting coordinated patrols, and increasing community sensitization along the shared border. They also resolved to expand Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities to foster stronger relations with border communities.

Additional initiatives include organizing friendly sports activities between the two forces and working with local authorities to promote the use of official border crossing points. The meeting further recommended the establishment of an official crossing point between Kibale (Kayonza District, Rwanda) and Bweranyange (Karagwe District, Tanzania) to regulate movement and curb illegal crossings.

In his closing remarks, Brigadier General Kwiligwa commended the strong collaboration between the two forces and expressed appreciation to the RDF delegation for their participation. He emphasized that continued cooperation will enhance peace, security, and professionalism across both forces.

Speaking on behalf of the RDF, Major General Karusisi thanked the TPDF for their warm hospitality and reaffirmed the commitment of both sides to maintaining security along the shared border. He noted that the outcomes of the meeting further strengthen coordination through joint efforts and information sharing.