Military leaders from Rwanda and Uganda responsible for areas along the two countries’ shared border have held their eighth meeting in Mbarara, Uganda, to discuss ways of strengthening cooperation and addressing cross-border security challenges.
The meeting took place on Thursday, August 27, 2026, bringing together delegations from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
The RDF delegation was led by Maj Gen Ruki Karusisi, Commander of the RDF 5th Division, while the Ugandan side was led by Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the UPDF 2nd Division.
Upon arrival in Uganda, the Rwandan delegation was received by Maj Gen Muhanguzi, together with his deputies and other officers from the UPDF 2nd Division.
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RDF and UPDF Join Tree-Planting Activity
Before the military discussions began, the two delegations joined local leaders and residents of Kamwezi Sector in Rukiga District for a tree-planting activity.
The activity provided an opportunity for the military leaders to interact with communities living near the border while also contributing to environmental protection.
Uganda Highlights Importance of Peaceful Relations
In his opening remarks, Maj Gen Muhanguzi welcomed the RDF delegation and emphasized the importance of maintaining peaceful relations between Rwanda and Uganda.
He noted that the two countries share more than just a geographical border, explaining that security and stability in one country directly benefit the other. “Peace in Rwanda benefits Uganda, and peace in Uganda benefits Rwanda,” he said, emphasizing the need for continued cooperation to protect communities living along the border.
Maj Gen Muhanguzi also commended the Commanders-in-Chief and Chiefs of Defence Forces of both countries for their leadership and efforts to strengthen unity, cooperation and good relations between Rwanda and Uganda.
Rwanda Calls for Dialogue and Cooperation
Maj Gen Karusisi thanked the Ugandan authorities for the warm reception given to the Rwandan delegation.
He stressed that the shared border should remain an area of peace, lawful movement, trade and cooperation rather than becoming a source of insecurity or misunderstanding.
He said military leaders have a responsibility to maintain open communication channels, strengthen trust between the two armed forces and resolve challenges through dialogue and coordinated action.
Maj Gen Karusisi also emphasized that strong relations between Rwanda and Uganda provide a foundation for deeper military cooperation.
Regular Meetings Address Border Security
The Mbarara meeting is part of regular quarterly meetings between RDF and UPDF commanders whose units operate near the Rwanda–Uganda border.
These meetings provide a platform for military leaders to assess the security situation, discuss cross-border challenges and coordinate responses to issues affecting communities on both sides of the border.
The meetings also aim to strengthen communication between the two armies and prevent misunderstandings that could affect relations between the neighboring countries.
Through continued dialogue and cooperation, Rwanda and Uganda are seeking to ensure that their shared border remains peaceful and supports lawful movement, trade and interaction between communities.
