RDF AND UPDF CONCLUDE 7TH PROXIMITY COMMANDERS' MEETING IN MUSANZE

The Seventh Proximity Commanders’ Meeting between the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) 2 and 5 Divisions and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) 2 Infantry Division, deployed along the shared border, concluded today after three days of discussions held in Musanze District, Rwanda in the spirit of bilateral cooperation, strong ties and mutual respect between two forces.

Over the three-day engagement, the 7th Proximity Commanders' meeting delegations reviewed matters arising since the previous (6th) session held from 30 September to 02 October 2025 in Kabale, Uganda, including progress on agreed-upon border-security initiatives, responses to illegal cross-border movements, human trafficking, illicit trade, livestock theft, smuggling of illicit brews, fraud and impersonation along the border.

The meeting reaffirmed the strong collaboration between the two forces through continuous dialogue and coordinated efforts for border security and regional stability. Participants also underscored the need to expand proximity meeting activities to include local communities through Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) initiatives, environmental protection programmes, and joint military exercises.

Speaking on behalf of the RDF leadership, Maj Gen Ruki Karusisi, the 5 RDF Division Commander, commended the spirit of openness, professionalism, and mutual respect that characterized the deliberations. He noted that the constructive engagements reaffirmed the shared commitment to sustaining peace, stability, and trust along the common border. He emphisised that as commanders, they reaffirm close coordination, information sharing and the joint address of emerging challenges.

Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, the 2 UPDF Infantry Division Commander, reaffirmed the commitment of the Uganda People’s Defence Force to implement resolutions from the 7th Proximity Commanders’ Meeting and remain responsive to emerging border issues. He expressed appreciation for the strategic guidance and support provided by the leadership of both countries in strengthening bilateral cooperation.

The next Proximity Commanders’ Meeting is proposed to take place in June 2026 in Uganda

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