Cross-border security: Rwanda and Uganda military commanders conclude 8th joint proximity meeting in Mbarara
The three-day 8th Proximity Commanders’ Meeting between the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) concluded in Mbarara City, Uganda, on August 29, 2026. Officially closed by the UPDF Deputy Commander of Land Forces, Maj Gen Felix Busizori, the summit focused on evaluating current security dynamics and strengthening bilateral operational frameworks along the shared frontier. The talks brought together key military leadership from both nations—including Maj Gen Ruki Karusisi of the RDF 5th Infantry Division and Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi of the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division—alongside units from the RDF 2nd Infantry Division. According to official reports from the Rwanda Ministry of Defence, the engagement highlights a sustained effort by both defense forces to align operational strategies directly under the guidance of their respective Commanders-in-Chief.
Central to the deliberations were strategies targeting cross-border illegal activities, the enhancement of real-time intelligence sharing, and the establishment of reliable communication channels between frontline commanders. During his closing remarks, Maj Gen Busizori underscored that continuous military-to-military collaboration remains vital for protecting local communities and preserving stability on both sides of the border. National coverage by The New Times noted that the meeting served to build greater trust between the two armies, ensuring that emerging local disputes or border misunderstandings are resolved swiftly through structured dialogue rather than operational friction.
Beyond strategic defense discussions, the event emphasized strong civil-military relations as a core component of border security. As part of the joint initiatives highlighted by UG Diplomat, personnel from both forces engaged with local communities in Kamwezi Sub-County, Rukiga District, participating in a joint tree-planting activity and visits to regional economic sites. Military leaders reiterated that border populations serve as essential partners in maintaining peace, noting that fostering positive community relations directly supports intelligence gathering and deters criminal networks operating across the Rwanda–Uganda border.
