Military leaders from Rwanda and Uganda have held their eighth meeting in Mbarara, Uganda, to discuss ways of strengthening cooperation and addressing security challenges along the two countries’ shared border.
The meeting took place on Thursday, August 27, 2026, bringing together delegations from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF).
RDF Delegation Arrives in Mbarara
The RDF delegation was led by Maj Gen Ruki Karusisi, Commander of the RDF 5th Division.
Upon arrival in Uganda, the Rwandan delegation was received by Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the UPDF 2nd Division, together with his deputies and other division officials.
The meeting brought together military commanders whose units operate in areas close to the Rwanda and Uganda border.
Military Leaders Join Tree-Planting Activity
Before the discussions began, the two military delegations joined local leaders and residents of Kamwezi Sector in Rukiga District in a tree-planting activity.
The activity provided an opportunity for the military leaders to interact with local communities while contributing to environmental protection.
Uganda Highlights the Importance of Peace
In his opening remarks, Maj Gen Muhanguzi welcomed the RDF delegation and emphasized the close relationship between Rwanda and Uganda.
He noted that the two countries share more than simply a border, stressing that peace and stability in one country directly benefit the other.
He said peace in Rwanda benefits Uganda, while peace in Uganda benefits Rwanda, making cooperation essential for protecting communities living along the border.
Maj Gen Muhanguzi also thanked 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 a Peaceful and Secure Border
Maj Gen Karusisi thanked the Ugandan authorities for the warm welcome given to the Rwandan delegation.
He emphasized that the shared border should remain a place 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, build trust between the two armed forces and resolve challenges through dialogue and coordinated action.
Maj Gen Karusisi also stressed that strong relations between Rwanda and Uganda provide a solid foundation for deeper military cooperation.
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Regular Meetings Address Border Security
The meeting is part of regular quarterly meetings between RDF and UPDF commanders whose units operate near the shared border.
These meetings provide an opportunity for the two sides to assess the security situation, discuss cross-border challenges and coordinate responses to issues affecting communities on both sides.
They also aim to strengthen cooperation and communication between the two armies while seeking lasting solutions to security concerns.
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Strengthening Relations Between Rwanda and Uganda
The latest meeting in Mbarara reflects continued efforts by the RDF and UPDF to maintain communication and cooperation along the Rwanda–Uganda border.
By working together and addressing challenges through dialogue, the two military institutions seek to promote stability, security, lawful cross-border movement and peaceful relations among border communities
