RDF, TPDF strengthen border security cooperation after high-level meeting

Elias Hakizimana Mar 26, 2026 0 Comments

By The Inspirer.

The Rwanda Defence Force has commended its growing military cooperation with the Tanzania People’s Defence Force following the conclusion of the 15th Border Commanders’ Meeting held on Thursday, March 26.

The three-day meeting, hosted in Karagwe District, brought together senior commanders from both sides tasked with securing the Rwanda–Tanzania border. Participants included officers from the RDF’s 5th Infantry Division and the TPDF’s 202 Brigade.

Talks focused on reviewing progress made since the previous session held in Rwanda in December 2025, while also addressing persistent cross-border security threats. These include smuggling, drug trafficking, illegal fishing in shared water bodies, and unauthorized border crossings.

The meeting was co-chaired by Brigadier General Gabriel Elias Kwiligwa and Major General Ruki Karusisi, with Defence Attachés from both countries also in attendance.

Both sides agreed on a set of practical measures to deepen cooperation, including enhanced intelligence sharing, joint patrols, and increased community awareness along border areas. They also committed to strengthening civil-military relations to build trust with local populations.

Among new initiatives, the two forces plan to organize friendly sports activities and work closely with local authorities to promote the use of official border posts. The meeting further proposed the establishment of a formal crossing point between Kibale and Bweranyange to better regulate movement and curb illegal crossings.

In closing remarks, Brig. Gen. Kwiligwa praised the “strong and constructive partnership” between the two forces, noting that sustained collaboration would reinforce peace, security, and professionalism.

Maj. Gen. Karusisi, on behalf of the RDF, thanked Tanzania for hosting the meeting and reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to safeguarding their shared border, emphasizing that the outcomes will further enhance joint operations and intelligence coordination.