RDF AND TPDF CONCLUDE 16TH PROXIMITY COMMANDERS’ MEETING IN NYAGATARE DISTRICT

Today, the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) concluded the 16th Proximity Commanders’ Security Meeting, held from 9 to 11 September 2026 in Nyagatare District, Eastern Province. The meeting reaffirmed the two countries’ shared commitment to maintaining security and stability along the Rwanda-Tanzania border.

During the three-day meeting, the delegations reviewed matters arising from the previous session, held in March 2026 in Karagwe, Tanzania. Discussions focused on progress made in implementing agreed border-security initiatives, responses to illicit cross-border activities, and measures aimed at protecting border communities.

Brig Gen Gabriel Elias Kwiligwa, Commander of the TPDF 202 Infantry Brigade, expressed his appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to the Tanzanian delegation. He also commended the strong cooperation between the armed forces of Rwanda and Tanzania, noting that the two countries enjoy longstanding and cordial relations.

In his remarks, Maj Gen Ruki Karusisi, Commander of the RDF 5th Infantry Division, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to Brig Gen Kwiligwa and the Tanzanian delegation for their presence, openness, and spirit of friendship throughout the meeting.

Maj Gen Karusisi emphasized that the engagement was a vital opportunity that went beyond routine dialogues. He noted that such meetings serve to deepen mutual trust, strengthen personal relationships among commanders, and reinforce the foundation for effective defence and security cooperation between the two countries. He further underscored the special responsibility of both sides to maintain open channels of communication and build lasting confidence in order to effectively address emerging security threats.

The Proximity Commanders’ Security Meetings are held every three months and provide a structured mechanism for commanders from both countries deployed along the border to review the outcomes of previous sessions, assess the prevailing security situation, and agree on coordinated measures to address emerging threats and cross-border security challenges.