Commanders from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) have convened for a meeting aimed at addressing cross-border security challenges and strengthening bilateral cooperation. ALSO READ: Rwanda, Tanzania defence forces meet over border security The 15th Proximity Commanders’ Security Meeting is being held in Karagwe District, Tanzania, from March 24 to 26, 2026. It brings together the RDF 5th Infantry Division and the TPDF 202 Infantry Brigade, whose areas of responsibility lie along the shared Rwanda–Tanzania border. The RDF delegation is led by Major General Ruki Karusisi, Commander of the 5th Infantry Division, while the TPDF delegation is headed by Brigadier General Gabriel Elias Kwiligwa, Commander of the 202 Infantry Brigade. ALSO READ: RDF, UPDF discuss cross-border security On the first day of the meeting, the commanders conducted joint field visits to key border areas to assess prevailing security challenges and engage with local communities, according to the RDF. The visits focused on raising awareness about the risks associated with illegal crossings and unlawful fishing activities in shared water bodies. The delegations visited border communities including Nyarubare and Katwe villages in Kyerwa District, as well as Nyakakoni Village in Kayisho Sector on the Tanzanian side, opposite Rwanda’s Rwimiyaga Sector. These areas are characterised by porous borders, with lakes, rivers, and swamps, particularly the Akagera River, frequently used for unauthorised crossings. The RDF and TPDF commanders identified these locations as hotspots for smuggling and other illicit cross-border activities, underscoring the need to strengthen preventive measures and enhance joint efforts to curb illegal movements and improve overall border security.
