Musanze, 16 August 2025

In a celebration of strong military cooperation and regional unity, the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) 2nd Division hosted today the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) 2nd Division in Musanze district for a series of joint activities, including a friendly football match, a symbolic route march, and a tree planting exercise.

The event was attended by local residents, government officials as well as defence  attachés from both Rwanda and Uganda.

Soldiers from both forces marched side by side through the streets of Musanze, warmly welcomed by cheering residents. They later jointly planted trees in public areas, underscoring their mutual commitment to environmental sustainability.

The event culminated in a lively football match at Ubworoherane Stadium, which ended in a draw (1-1) and proceeded in dramatic penalty shoot-out. The UPDF 2nd Division emerged victorious, winning 8–7 on penalties against the RDF 2nd Division. Despite the result, both teams displayed discipline and sportsmanship, reflecting the deeper purpose of the gathering.

In his address, the Governor of Northern Province, Maurice Mugabowagahunde thanked the UPDF and RDF for taking part in the friendly match, praising the initiative as a powerful example of peace-building and community engagement.

Speaking on behalf of the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Maj Gen Alex Kagame, Chief of Staff of the Reserve Force, underscored the spirit of the day: “The RDF and UPDF share a historic bond of friendship and cooperation, and today’s football match symbolises not only competition but also unity, trust, and the shared commitment to building a secure and resilient future for the region.”

Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the UPDF 2nd Division, also shared heartfelt remarks: “Today we enjoy the fruits of Rwanda’s patriotic army liberation struggle, our brotherhood, and our shared purpose. We thank our presidents; H.E Paul Kagame and H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni; we thank the RDF for their hospitality and look forward to future engagements.”