Uganda, Rwanda Hold 3rd High-Level Summit on Border Security

Uganda and Rwanda have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cross-border security cooperation and facilitating the movement of goods and people between the two nations. This was the key outcome of the third Uganda-Rwanda Cross-Border Security Meeting held in Mbarara, Uganda, on February 27, 2025.

The high-level meeting followed the resolutions of the 11th Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) held in Kigali in March 2023 and built upon the progress achieved in previous meetings in Kabale, Uganda (December 2023), and Nyagatare, Rwanda (May 2024).

Uganda’s delegation was led by Maj. Gen. (Rtd.) Robert Rusoke, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Rwanda, while the Rwandan delegation was led by Ambassador Vincent Karega, Rwanda’s Ambassador at Large and Envoy to the Great Lakes Region.

Key Discussions and Resolutions

The primary agenda of the meeting was to assess and address shared challenges in critical sectors, including immigration, trade, customs, health, border demarcation, and security along the common border. Both sides acknowledged the progress made in implementing directives from the Northern Corridor Integration Projects 14th Heads of State Summit and discussed potential challenges in the full operationalization of these projects.

The delegations commended the advancements achieved since the last two cross-border security meetings and urged authorities on both sides to ensure the complete implementation of newly agreed-upon recommendations. The meeting also underscored the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration to promote regional stability and economic growth.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

In a joint statement, Maj. Gen. Rusoke and Ambassador Karega expressed satisfaction with the discussions and pledged to maintain the spirit of good neighborliness. They emphasized the necessity of regular follow-ups to ensure sustained progress in all agreed areas.