UPDF 2nd Infantry Division Commander Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi and his delegation recieved at Cyanika border

A delegation of senior Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) officers led by the Commander of the UPDF 2 Infantry Division, Major General Paul Muhanguzi, is in Rwanda,  to attend the 7th Proximity Commanders’ Security Conference between UPDF 2nd Division and Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) 5th Division.

The delegation that include commanders, Intelligence officers and staff officers at division headquarters was yesterday received by Major General Ruki Karusisi the head of Rwanda Defence Forces delegation at Cyanika one stop border post 

The three-day meeting is convened to review and evaluate the security situation along the Uganda–Rwanda common border, assess the implementation of previous resolutions, and strengthen joint mechanisms aimed at maintaining peace, stability, and good neighbourliness.

Maj Gen Muhanguzi emphasized the strategic importance of the proximity commanders’ framework in fostering trust, strengthening coordination, and ensuring timely resolution of cross-border concerns.

“The progress we have registered in previous engagements reflects the maturity and professionalism of our forces. Disciplined forces guided by clear command intent can lead to peaceful coexistence and development of the region,” Maj Gen Muhanguzi said.

He reaffirmed the commitment of both forces to implementing the guidance of their respective national leadership and maintaining open communication channels.

“As commanders entrusted with responsibility along a shared border, we remain fully committed to maintaining open and timely communication and preventing incidents that may arise,” he said.

The UPDF 2nd Division Commander further stressed that professional armed forces play a critical role in safeguarding peace and supporting prosperity.

The Commander of RDF 2th Infantry Division Commander, Brigadier General Deo Rusanganwa reaffirmed the importance of sustained dialogue and cooperation between the two and added that the proximity commanders’ engagements continue to strengthen trust, enhance coordination, and promote stability along the shared frontier.

“The RDF-UPDF Proximity meeting remains a vital confidence building platform. It reinforces coordination between our field Commanders, strengthens communication channels and ensures timely resolution of incidents along our common border” He said.

He noted that the continued interaction between field commanders plays a critical role in preventing misunderstandings, resolving emerging concerns, and fostering good neighbourliness between the two countries.

According to the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division Public Information Officer, Major Kiconco Tabaro, the conference will conclude with a joint communiqué outlining agreed measures to enhance border security cooperation and consolidate the gains achieved through previous engagements.

The Proximity Commanders’ Meeting remains a cornerstone of Uganda–Rwanda military cooperation and a practical demonstration of the shared commitment to peace, stability, and collective security in the region.

Both delegations were briefed by  Northern Province leadership led by the Governor Hon Maurice Mugabowagahunde on tourism potential of Northern Province, Industrialisation and other key developments and the delegations were taken through a guided tour of Musanze Industrial park which has significantly contributed to the economic development of the area.

Present in the conference are RDF 2nd and 5th division commanders, Intelligence officers, Brigade commanders, Battalion commanders and the defence advisor of Rwanda to Uganda, Col Emmanuel Ruzindana and the Defence advisor of Uganda to Rwanda, Brigadier General Dr Emmanuel Shillingi among many others.