UPDF And TPDF Hold First-Ever Proximity Commanders’ Meeting To Boost Border Stability

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral security cooperation following the inaugural proximity commanders’ meeting held in Misenyi District, Tanzania.

The three-day meeting, conducted from May 7 to 9, 2026, brought together commanders from the TPDF 202 Infantry Brigade and the UPDF 1 Infantry Division to discuss security and stability along the Uganda-Tanzania border.

The meeting was chaired by the Commander of the TPDF 202 Infantry Brigade, Brigadier General Gabriel Elias Kwiligwa, alongside the Deputy Commander of the UPDF 1 Infantry Division, Colonel Michael Walaka Hyeroba.

Brig Gen Kwiligwa emphasised that the engagement was aimed at strengthening cooperation, mutual respect, trust, and collective responsibility in promoting peace and stability along the common border.

He reiterated the TPDF’s commitment to working closely with Uganda to reduce border-related challenges for the benefit of citizens in both countries.

On his part, Col Hyeroba said that the meeting was an opportunity to further strengthen defence cooperation between Uganda and Tanzania and to promote the spirit of East African integration.

“We come open-hearted to discuss whatever challenges arise at the border for constructive engagement,” he said.

During the engagement, delegates conducted field visits along the Uganda-Tanzania border to assess the prevailing security situation and observe community activities in border areas. The delegation also visited Kabindi and Minziro villages in Misenyi District, where they interacted with local leaders and residents to understand the security challenges affecting communities living along the border.

The joint delegation encouraged residents to continue coexisting peacefully and to adhere to the laws and regulations of both countries to promote harmonious relations and shared economic benefits.

The meeting identified several security challenges affecting the border areas, including cross-border crime and terrorism threats. Both sides agreed to enhance intelligence sharing, surveillance, and coordinated operations along the border to maintain peace and security.

The parties resolved to continue holding such proximity meetings on a rotational basis every six months.

The meeting was attended by the Tanzanian Defence Attaché to Uganda, Brig Gen Festo J. Machua, and delegations of senior officers from both countries.