Border Stability Boosted as UPDF and Tz Army Hold First-Ever Proximity Commanders’ Meeting

Uganda and Tanzania have strengthened bilateral security cooperation after holding their inaugural proximity commanders’ meeting in Misenyi District, agreeing on closer coordination, intelligence sharing and sustained joint efforts to secure the shared border.

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral security cooperation following the inaugural proximity commanders’ meeting held in Misenyi District.

The three-day engagement, conducted from May 7 to 9, 2026, brought together commanders from the TPDF 202 Infantry Brigade and the UPDF 1 Infantry Division to deliberate on security and stability along the Uganda–Tanzania border.

The meeting was jointly chaired by the Commander of the TPDF 202 Infantry Brigade, Brigadier General Gabriel Elias Kwiligwa, and the Deputy Commander of the UPDF 1 Infantry Division, Colonel Michael Walaka Hyeroba.

Addressing delegates, Brig Gen Kwiligwa said the engagement was aimed at strengthening cooperation, mutual respect, trust and collective responsibility in promoting peace along the shared border.

He reaffirmed the TPDF’s commitment to working closely with Uganda in addressing border-related challenges for the benefit of citizens in both countries.

Col Hyeroba described the meeting as an important platform to deepen defence cooperation and advance the spirit of East African integration.

“We come open-hearted to discuss whatever challenges arise at the border for constructive engagement,” he said.

As part of the engagement, delegates conducted field visits along the Uganda–Tanzania border to assess the security situation and observe community activities in border areas.

The joint delegation visited Kabindi and Minziro villages in Misenyi District, where they interacted with local leaders and residents to better understand the challenges affecting border communities.

During the visits, residents were encouraged to maintain peaceful coexistence and observe the laws and regulations of both countries in order to promote harmony and shared economic benefits.

The meeting identified security concerns including cross-border crime and terrorism threats. Both sides agreed to enhance intelligence sharing, surveillance and coordinated operations to maintain stability.

The two defence forces also resolved to hold proximity commanders’ meetings on a rotational basis every six months to sustain collaboration and strengthen border security.

The engagement was attended by Tanzanian Defence Attaché to Uganda Brig Gen Festo J. Machua, alongside senior officers from both countries.