The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) 2nd Infantry Division welcomed a military delegation from the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) at Mirama border post in Ntungamo District.
The delegation included senior officers from the RDF 2nd Infantry Division, RDF 5th Infantry Division, and Rwanda’s Defence Attaché to Uganda, Col. Emmanuel Ruzindana.
These officers command units stationed along the shared border and have been actively involved in addressing cross-border crime and security concerns in collaboration with various stakeholders.
Maj. Gen. Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division, officially received the Rwandan military delegation at Mirama Hills. The Rwandan team was led by Brig. Gen. Pascal Muhizi, Commander of the RDF 5th Infantry Division.
During his opening remarks at Igongo Country Hotel and Cultural Centre in Mbarara City, Maj. Gen. Muhanguzi extended his appreciation to the RDF commanders for visiting Uganda. “Your presence continues to reaffirm a strong commitment to the vision of our esteemed Heads of State—His Excellency Gen. Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda, and His Excellency Gen. (Rtd) Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of Uganda,” he stated.
The meeting aimed to evaluate previous discussions and assess progress in creating a favorable environment for the well-being of border communities and, ultimately, both nations.
Maj. Gen. Muhanguzi emphasized the strides made in tackling cross-border crime and strengthening security. “I am confident that notable advancements have been achieved since the launch of proximity commanders’ meetings. Commanders now communicate frequently, especially when addressing cross-border security matters. I, therefore, commend them for this significant accomplishment,” he said.
He urged the commanders to sustain their cooperation to fulfill the overarching goals of the Commanders-in-Chief of both nations and the Chiefs of Defence Forces—Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba of the UPDF and Gen. Mubarakh Muganga of the RDF.
“This collaboration will significantly enhance security, strengthen relationships among border communities, and contribute to the broader socio-economic progress of our countries,” he added.
Brig. Gen. Pascal Muhizi, head of the RDF delegation, expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality extended by the UPDF. “On behalf of my delegation and myself, I sincerely thank you for the warm reception—we greatly value your kindness and generosity,” he stated.
Brig. Gen. Muhizi also underscored the substantial achievements made since the initiation of proximity commanders’ meetings. “This highlights our shared understanding of the significance of these engagements in resolving challenges that frequently arise along our borders,” he noted.
Gen. Muhizi encouraged military commanders and staff officers to uphold the same spirit and put in additional effort to fulfill the directives of their leadership. He concluded his remarks by expressing gratitude to the UPDF and RDF Commanders-in-Chief and Chiefs of Defence Forces for their unwavering support.
Among those present were Col. Armstrong Nduga, UPDF 2nd Infantry Division Operations and Training Officer, along with brigade commanders, battalion commanders, and intelligence officers.
Both delegations also paid a courtesy visit to district leaders in Ntungamo and Rukiga at the Ntungamo District Headquarters.
The meeting, scheduled to last three days, follows previous engagements held in Nyagatare and Musanze in Rwanda, as well as in Mbarara City.
