A delegation from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), led by Maj. Gen. Ruki Karusisi, Commander of Rwanda’s 5th Division, attended the 8th Border Divisional Commanders’ Conference held in Mbarara, Uganda, on August 27, 2026.

The Rwandan delegation was received by Maj. Gen. Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) 2nd Division, together with his deputies and other division officials.

The conference brought together military commanders responsible for border areas to strengthen cooperation and coordination between neighbouring forces.

Such engagements provide a platform for commanders to exchange information, assess security developments along the border and develop coordinated responses to cross-border security challenges.

The meeting also sought to reinforce communication and operational coordination between the RDF and UPDF, particularly in addressing security concerns that can affect communities on both sides of the Rwanda-Uganda border.

Border security cooperation is important in preventing and responding to challenges such as illegal cross-border activities, organised crime, trafficking and other threats that require collaboration between security forces of neighbouring countries.

The conference further provided an opportunity for the commanders to share experiences and discuss practical measures for maintaining peace and stability in border communities.

The participation of Maj. Gen. Karusisi and the 5th Division delegation underscores the importance Rwanda attaches to military-to-military engagement with neighbouring countries as part of broader efforts to promote regional security and stability.

The 8th Border Divisional Commanders’ Conference therefore served as a platform to strengthen existing security cooperation, improve coordination between the two forces and enhance the capacity of border commanders to respond collectively to emerging threats.