UPDF, RDF Set For Historic Friendly Match And Civil-Military Activities In Ntungamo

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 2 Infantry Division will host the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) 5 Infantry Division football team for a friendly match on Saturday, 31 May 2025, at Kyamate Playground in Ntungamo Municipality, Ntungamo District.

This landmark event marks the first-ever sports activity between the two military formations since the start of Proximity Commanders’ engagements. It is a significant step in strengthening military cooperation, promoting regional security, and fostering people-to-people relations along the border.

The RDF delegation will be officially received in Uganda by Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the UPDF 2 Infantry Division, alongside other senior military officials.

The football match will be open to the public, underscoring the important bond between the military and civilians.

In collaboration with local leaders, both teams will also participate in civil-military cooperation activities in Ntungamo Municipality. These include a route march through Ntungamo Town, tree planting, and a blood donation drive. Members of the public are encouraged to take part in these community-focused initiatives.

The match follows a series of prior engagements between the UPDF 2 Infantry Division and the RDF 5 Infantry Division, held at different times in both Uganda and Rwanda. These engagements are intended to boost border security by promoting cooperation against cross-border crime, improving coordination among security actors, and building stronger ties with local communities.

Under this bilateral framework, both forces are planning regular Proximity Commanders’ meetings, joint operations, coordinated training, and more sports exchanges. These efforts aim to enhance collaboration on shared security priorities and support the socio-economic transformation of border communities.

The sports event is more than a game; it is a demonstration of trust and solidarity between the two military forces. It strengthens the operational and tactical bonds between commands and highlights the importance of regional cooperation.

The UPDF 2 Infantry Division extends a warm welcome to the RDF Sports Club and invites the public to partake in this historic moment of military unity and cross-border friendship.