The Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, is in Kigali, Rwanda where he is scheduled to hold discussions with senior leaders of the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) and meet the Rwandan President H.E. Paul Kagame. The CDF’s visit coincides with tensions in the region, particularly in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan.
Upon his arrival in Kigali on Thursday afternoon, Gen Kainerugaba was received by his Rwandan counterpart, Gen. Mubarak Muganga, alongside other high-ranking RDF officials. Gen. Kainerugaba is accompanied by the UPDF Joint Staff – Legal Brig. Gen. Asingura Kagoro and veteran journalist Andrew Mwenda.
During his last visit, Gen. Kainerugaba held talks with Rwandan President Paul and visited the RDF headquarters where held talks with his counterpart.
In addition to diplomatic engagements, Gen. Kainerugaba, who also serves as Uganda’s Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, is expected to tour selected military installations and engage with RDF personnel.
His visit highlights the ongoing efforts to solidify collaboration and mutual understanding between the two nations’ armed forces.
Gen Kainerugaba has been widely recognized for his pivotal role in resolving the recent standoff between Uganda and Rwanda, which had strained economic activities and restricted cross-border movement.
His efforts have contributed to ending tensions and restoring the historically close ties between the two nations, which share deep cultural, familial, and geographical connections.