The high-level discussions, which build on previous engagements in Kabale, Uganda (December 2023) and Nyagatare, Rwanda (May 2024), focused on border security, the movement of people and goods, and addressing shared threats affecting both nations.
In a joint communiqué issued after the meeting, the two delegations underscored their joint responsibility in safeguarding their common border, acknowledging that both countries have previously faced challenges in managing cross-border movement of insurgents and refugees.
'The main purpose of the meeting was to further strengthen cross-border security cooperation between Uganda and Rwanda and ease movement of persons and goods between the two countries,' the statement read.
The meeting was led by Maj. Gen. (Rtd.) Robert Rusoke, Uganda's High Commissioner to Rwanda, and Ambassador Vincent Karega, Rwanda's Envoy to the Great Lakes Region.
Discussions focused on longstanding security issues, particularly the control of illegal movements across the border, which have in the past been linked to insurgents, refugee flows, and smuggling activities.
The joint communiqué noted that the delegations 'assessed the current status of shared challenges faced in the sectors of immigration, trade, customs, health, border demarcation, and security along our common border.'
Recognizing that unregulated movement of people has posed security risks in the past, both sides agreed on the need to enhance intelligence-sharing, strengthen border patrols, and coordinate immigration processes.
Additionally, the meeting reviewed the progress made in implementing regional security directives, particularly in relation to the Northern corridor integration projects.
While acknowledging the strides made, both countries also noted the potential challenges arising from the operationalization of these projects, calling for continued vigilance and cooperation.
Both Uganda and Rwanda emphasized the need for sustained dialogue and security collaboration to prevent any resurgence of border-related tensions.
'The two countries welcomed the continuous efforts to provide a platform for fruitful dialogue and cooperation,' the communiqué stated, highlighting the importance of cross-border coordination in managing both security and humanitarian concerns.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Maj. Gen. Rusoke and Ambassador Karega praised the continued commitment to regional peace and stability, emphasizing that both nations would work towards fully implementing agreed security measures.
'Both leaders hailed the continued spirit of good neighborliness between the two countries and expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the meeting while committing to carry out regular follow-ups,' the communiqué affirmed.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-uganda-strengthen-cross-border-security-cooperation
