The Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) recently strengthened their cross-border ties with a friendly football match in Kabale, Uganda. This third annual event, held on December 6, 2025, aimed to foster unity, collaboration, and good neighbourly relations between the two defence forces. The match, which was competitive and entertaining, ended with a 5-2 victory for the UPDF team. Uganda's leadership was represented by Hon. Henry Musasizi, Minister of State for Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, who praised the forces for using sports to enhance their relationship. Maj. Gen. Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the UPDF's 2nd Division, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of such interactions in building trust and understanding between the two nations. The RDF delegation, led by Brig. Gen. Deo Rusanganwa, Commander of the 2nd Infantry Division, paid a courtesy call to the district leadership upon arrival in Kabale. The district chairman, Nelson Nshangabasheija, welcomed the visit, highlighting the ongoing cooperation's role in promoting security, social ties, and regional development. Gen. Rusanganwa praised the warm reception and expressed RDF's commitment to working closely with UPDF and local authorities for the benefit of border communities. The event featured a joint route march through Kabale Town, symbolizing the forces' shared dedication to peace and stability. Additionally, the RDF and UPDF participated in a tree-planting activity, reinforcing their environmental protection efforts and strengthening community relations. The wide range of participants, including defence attachés, senior and junior officers, and local community members, underscored the significance of continued collaboration and people-to-people engagement between the two nations. Both forces reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation across various domains, recognizing the crucial role of sports and community interaction in building lasting partnerships.
