NEWS
MBARARA
In a landmark moment for military cooperation, the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) 2nd Infantry Division will host the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) 5th Infantry Division for a friendly football match on May 31, 2025, at Kyamate Playground in Ntungamo Municipality, Ntungamo District. This event marks the first-ever sports engagement between the two military formations, aimed at fostering camaraderie and strengthening ties.
The RDF sports delegation will be formally welcomed to Uganda by Major General Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the UPDF 2 Infantry Division, alongside other senior UPDF officials. The match will be open to the public, reflecting the significance of civilian participation in military diplomacy.
Beyond the pitch, the collaboration extends to Civil-Military Cooperation activities within Ntungamo Municipality. The two teams, working alongside local leadership, will conduct a series of community engagements, including a route march in Ntungamo town, tree planting initiatives, and a blood donation drive. Organizers encourage all well-wishers to join in the festivities and witness this historic event firsthand.
The football match is the culmination of a series of bilateral engagements between the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division and RDF 5th Infantry Division, conducted in both Uganda and Rwanda. These meetings have focused on strengthening cross-border security through coordinated efforts, promoting crime prevention measures, and fostering cooperation with border communities.
Military officials emphasize the importance of proximity cooperation in effectively handling cross-border security challenges, safeguarding civilian populations, and driving socio-economic transformation in border communities. Regular Proximity Commanders’ meetings, coordinated operations, joint training programs, and sports activities are among the strategies outlined to enhance military relations.
The initiative reflects a broader diplomatic effort to nurture stability and mutual understanding between Uganda and Rwanda. Military leaders express gratitude for the strategic guidance provided by Uganda’s President and Commander-in-Chief, Gen (Rtd) Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
As anticipation builds, organizers extend a warm welcome to the RDF sports delegation and encourage residents to attend this symbolic event that underscores unity, security, and the power of sports in diplomacy.
