Security personnel and administrators in eastern Rwanda and western Uganda have agreed to set up a joint security team to monitor the common border
The joint effort will also include sensitising locals on security matters following growing terror threats, increased thefts and other crimes in areas along the border.
The agreement was struck during a joint meeting at Elite Pub and Bar in Rubaare Town in Ntungamo District of Uganda.
It was attended by Rwizi region police commander Hilary Kulaige, Rwanda region police commander Eric Mutsinzi, Nyagatare District mayor Fred Atuhe Sabiiti.
The security chiefs from both countries said there has been growing laxity in security across the border with unregulated movement of people and livestock.
“We shall meet both the leaders and locals to find a lasting solution for what has been going on. Communities must be involved at all levels,” Mr Atuhe told journalists after the meeting.
Mr. Bamwine said immigration issues, work permits for immigrants in Uganda, spuriousness of the borders, and cross-border cattle thefts were signs of poor communication between local leaders in the two countries.
“Our biggest issue was cattle thefts in Uganda and cows being sold in Rwanda, but as we speak, some cows have been impounded. We also said immigrants should not be harassed so long as they possess national identification cards of either country,” Mr. Bamwine said.
The team agreed to meet regularly and have more joint security meetings with locals at the border stations to check illegal activities