‘We Are One’: Minister Musasizi Opens UPDF–RDF Brotherhood Football Match

The State Minister for Finance (General Duties), Hon. Henry Musasizi, on Saturday officially opened a friendly football match between the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) at Kabale Main Stadium, calling the event a powerful symbol of regional unity and brotherhood.

In his remarks, Hon. Musasizi said the two armies share deep historical ties that transcend the colonial borders dividing Uganda and Rwanda.

“UPDF and RDF are two forces separated by colonial borders. We are one. For instance, when I am in Kigali, I do not buy wine, I am more or less at home. I have very many friends there. So we are one,” he said.

He hailed the football match as an important step in strengthening the long-standing relationship between the two countries, adding that it aligns with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s long-term vision for the East African Federation.

“Now reaching this extent of having a friendship football match, I find it necessary and very useful. This is the kind of spirit that will make the East African Federation a reality,” he emphasized.

Hon. Musasizi encouraged both forces to continue consolidating unity, cooperation, and mutual respect, describing the event as more than sport, a reflection of shared aspirations for peace and stability within the region.

The UPDF 2nd Division Commander, Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, described the match as a “brotherly game” that demonstrates the historical friendship and military cooperation between Uganda and Rwanda.

“This is a brotherly game that represents the deep historical ties between our two countries. It is a reminder that our armies have always worked closely together,” he said.

Representing the RDF delegation, Brigadier General Deo Rusanganwa praised the two armies for maintaining a spirit of brotherhood and collaboration over the years.

“The UPDF and RDF share a longstanding friendship. Today’s match reinforces that bond and our continued commitment to working together,” he noted.

The match attracted hundreds of spectators from across Kabale and the Kigezi region, highlighting the strong cultural and social ties between the two nations.

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