UPDF Triumphs Over RDF in Historic Football Match Strengthening Cross-Border Security Ties

NTUNGAMO

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) marked a milestone in regional cooperation with a historic football match held on Saturday, May 31, at Kyamate Playground in Ntungamo Municipality. The event, which attracted thousands of civilians and military personnel, showcased a spirit of unity and strengthened ties between the neighboring forces.

The UPDF 2nd Division infantry football team clinched victory against their RDF 5 Infantry Division counterparts with a 4–3 win in penalties, securing the trophy in what was dubbed the first-ever “Proximity Game” between the two forces. However, the overarching message was clear: the real triumph lay in fostering camaraderie and shared purpose.

“There was no winner or loser at Kyamate playground,” remarked the Chief Guest, Lt Gen (Rtd) Jim Owoyesigire, former Uganda Air Force Commander. “We all won.”

The day’s events kicked off with a joint march through Ntungamo town, led by the UPDF 2 Infantry Division brass band. The match drew participation from high-ranking officers of both armies, including:  Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, UPDF 2nd Infantry Division Commander, Brig Gen Pascal Muhizi RDF 5th Infantry Division Commander, Brig Gen Richard Karemire, UPDF Joint Staff – Formal Education, Sports & Culture, Brig Gen Emmanuel Shillingi Uganda’s Defence Attaché in Rwanda, Col Emmanuel Ruzindana Rwanda’s Defence Attaché in Uganda, Lt Gen (Rtd) Owoyesigire underscored Kyamate’s significance, recalling its historical role in Uganda’s liberation. “It is here in Kyamate where the search for truth by His Excellency Gen (Rtd) Yoweri Kaguta Museveni began nearly 70 years ago. That struggle was supported by many from Rwanda, including His Excellency Gen Paul Kagame,” he noted.

Reaffirming the deep-rooted bonds between Uganda and Rwanda, he emphasized, “Gallant men and women from both countries fought side by side for freedom and democracy. These bonds are unbreakable. Just as Uganda played a key role in Rwanda’s struggle, President Kagame and many Rwandans were instrumental in ours.”

The match was hailed as a symbol of ongoing collaboration, extending beyond political and diplomatic platforms. “Cooperation must be visible in communities, fields, and entertainment venues like Kyamate and Musanze,” Owoyesigire stressed.

Both division commanders, Maj Gen Muhanguzi and Brig Gen Muhizi expressed gratitude to the Presidents of Uganda and Rwanda, as well as the Chiefs of Defence Forces of both nations, for their unwavering commitment to strengthening relations.

In addition to the match, commemorative trees were planted at Kyamate Playground, highlighting the military’s commitment to environmental conservation.

Civilians were also treated to a free medical camp, courtesy of the UPDF 2nd Division medical team in collaboration with the Ntungamo Red Cross, local health services, and the Rukungiri Blood Bank. The camp provided vital services, including:  HIV testing & counseling, Hepatitis screening, Malaria testing & treatment, Blood pressure checks, Blood donation drive among others.

The event welcomed numerous dignitaries, including:  Ntungamo Resident District Commissioner Mr. Isiah Kanyamahane, Woman MP Hon Kamateneti Bata  Ntungamo Mayor, Mr. Jackjex Kafureka, Assistant District Health Officer, Beatrice Chemusto and religious leaders. Senior military officers, and community leaders also in attendance were Brig Gen Sam Kakuru former Deputy Chief of Personnel & Administration, Brig Gen (Rtd) Tumwebaze Okello, Coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation among others.

As regional engagement deepens, the next round of sports activities between the two armies is set to take place in Rwanda, hosted by the RDF.