The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) 2nd Infantry Division football team is set to play a friendly match against the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) 5th Infantry Division football team in Masanze as part of ongoing civil-military cooperation activities between the two neighbouring forces.
The match, whose exact date will be announced soon, is among several joint activities designed by proximity commanders to strengthen border security, promote peace, and enhance relations between border communities.
“This friendly match is one of the civil-military activities aimed at promoting border security, prosperity of border communities, and synchronisation of perceptions between the two forces,” Maj. Kiconco Tabaro 2nd Infantry Public Information Officer said.
The UPDF football team has already intensified preparations for the fixture. The planned match follows a similar encounter earlier this year at Kyamate Play Ground in Ntungamo, which attracted thousands of civilians. The event included a joint march by both forces through Ntungamo Town, a gesture widely seen as a symbol of solidarity and regional cooperation.
“The first match in Ntungamo attracted thousands of civilians and the two forces marched together through town. It was a true show of solidarity and brotherhood between RDF and UPDF,” the statement added.
Officials from both armies have expressed optimism that such sporting activities will foster trust among civilians living along the Uganda-Rwanda border and encourage peaceful co-existence. “This is more than just football; it’s about building peace, strengthening friendship, and engaging with the communities we serve,” one UPDF officer said.
Additional matches and joint community engagements are expected in the coming months as part of the two forces’ efforts to improve bilateral relations and promote regional security.
“The date for the Masanze match will be communicated anytime from now, and more matches are planned,” the UPDF confirme
