In a powerful show of unity and cooperation, the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) will face off in a friendly football match on Saturday, 31 May 2025. The much-anticipated game will take place at Kyamate Playground in Ntungamo Municipality, located in Uganda’s Ntungamo District.
This is the first time that the UPDF 2 Infantry Division and the RDF 5 Infantry Division will engage in a sports activity together, marking a new chapter in military relations between the two neighbouring countries.
This match is more than just a football game it’s a symbol of trust, friendship, and regional peace. It comes as part of a series of Proximity Commanders’ engagements aimed at promoting collaboration between the two forces. These efforts are designed to improve border security, coordinate responses to cross-border crimes, and bring communities closer to the military through shared activities and cooperation.
The RDF delegation will be warmly welcomed to Uganda by Major General Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the UPDF 2 Infantry Division, along with other senior military officials. Their arrival marks a significant step in building stronger ties between Uganda and Rwanda, not only at a military level but also among the people living along the shared border.
The public is invited to attend the football match, which is intended to show the strong bond between soldiers and civilians. But the activities don’t stop at the pitch. Both military teams will also take part in several community-centered events in Ntungamo Municipality. These include a route march through Ntungamo Town, tree planting to support the environment, and a blood donation campaign that will benefit local health services.
These civil-military activities are a clear demonstration of how armies can work hand in hand with communities to bring about positive change. Local leaders are playing an active role in organizing and supporting these events, which will help to build trust and understanding between the armed forces and the public.
This historic match follows previous engagements between the UPDF and RDF, where military commanders have met on both sides of the border. The goal of these engagements is to improve coordination between security actors, foster regional stability, and ensure safety for the people living in border areas.
Looking ahead, the two armies plan to continue these efforts through joint training, coordinated security operations, regular meetings, and more sports exchanges. These initiatives aim to boost security while also supporting the economic and social development of communities near the border.
As the two teams take to the field this weekend, they will not only be playing for victory but also for peace, cooperation, and a shared vision of a secure and united region. The UPDF 2 Infantry Division extends a heartfelt welcome to their Rwandan counterparts and invites the public to join in celebrating this historic event of military friendship and regional harmony.
