Military leaders from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) have met in Karagwe District for the 15th Proximity Commanders’ Security Meeting. The meeting aims to address security issues along the shared border and improve cooperation between the two forces.
The three-day meeting, from March 24 to 26, 2026, involves the RDF 5th Infantry Division and the TPDF 202 Infantry Brigade, which are responsible for areas along the Rwanda-Tanzania border.
The Rwandan team is led by Major General Ruki Karusisi, commander of the 5th Infantry Division, while the Tanzanian team is headed by Brigadier General Gabriel Elias Kwiligwa, commander of the 202 Infantry Brigade.
Discussions centered on addressing shared security concerns, particularly: Unregulated activities in border communities, Illegal border crossing, Smuggling and illicit trade.
Previous sessions, including the 14th meeting held in Ngoma District, Rwanda in December 2025, have similarly focused on enhancing cooperation and addressing cross-border concerns affecting local populations.
Beyond formal discussions, commanders typically conduct joint field visits to assess conditions along the border and engage with local communities. These interactions help identify practical challenges such as illegal trade routes and community-level security concerns.
Past meetings have shown that residents involved in legitimate cross-border trade often welcome such cooperation, citing improved safety and smoother interactions between security forces.
