UPDF Delegation Returns from Rwanda border proximity talks

A Ugandan Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) military delegation returned after attending the three – day (18 – 20th February 2026) 7th Edition of the RDF – UPDF Proximity Commander ‘s meeting in Musanze district, Rwanda, where they engaged in talks with their Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) counterparts.

The conference, held at Hotel Classic in Musanze, Northern Province, included a guided tour of the Musanze Industrial Park and a visit to the Mutobo Ex-Combatants Rehabilitation and Reintegration Centre.

The meeting reviewed previous recommendations and addressed issues such as porous borders, human trafficking, and cross-border crime. The delegations evaluated agreed-upon border-security initiatives and discussed responses to illegal cross-border movements, illicit trade, livestock theft, and other crimes.

The meeting emphasized the need for continuous dialogue and coordinated efforts to ensure border security and stability. It also resolved to expand the scope of engagement to include local communities through military-to-military relations and Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) initiatives.

The UPDF delegation also had a courtesy call on the Governor of Northern Province and toured the Musanze Industrial Park and the Mutobo rehabilitation centre.

Speaking during the meeting, the UPDF 2 Infantry Division Commander Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi reiterated UPDFs commitment towards working closely with border communities for prosperity, and avoid conflict.

“We are moving steadily towards prosperity of our border communities. We should not only focus on security issues but rather peaceful co – existence of our people. We are the same people, we need to prosper, border communities will always have confidence in us as a pro-people army,” he stated.

The next meeting is scheduled to take place in Uganda in three months’ time.