Rwanda’s Kagame flies to Uganda for birthday of Museveni’s son

Paul Kagame has travelled to Uganda for the first time in four years to attend birthday celebrations for Muhoozi Kainerugaba, a visit widely viewed as another sign of improving ties between the two neighbouring countries.

The Rwandan leader’s trip comes after several years of strained relations between Kigali and Kampala, which at one point led to the closure of their shared border and accusations of interference in each other’s internal affairs.

According to Rwanda’s state broadcaster, Kagame is expected to hold talks with Yoweri Museveni during the visit in addition to attending celebrations for Museveni’s son.

Kainerugaba, who commands Uganda’s land forces and is regarded as one of the country’s most influential military figures, has played a prominent role in efforts to restore relations between the two countries.

Diplomatic observers have credited his engagement with helping to ease tensions that had escalated since 2019, when Rwanda closed its border with Uganda amid a series of political and security disputes.

The border remained shut for several years before reopening earlier this year, marking a significant breakthrough in efforts to normalise relations between the two East African neighbours.

Relations between Rwanda and Uganda had deteriorated sharply after both governments accused each other of supporting hostile groups and interfering in domestic affairs. The dispute disrupted trade, travel and the movement of people between the two countries.

In recent months, however, there have been growing signs of reconciliation, with increased diplomatic engagement and cooperation between officials from both sides.

Adding to the symbolism of Kagame’s visit, Kainerugaba recently referred to the Rwandan president as his “uncle” in a social media post, highlighting the increasingly warm public tone between the two leaders.

Kagame’s presence at the celebrations is expected to further reinforce the thaw in relations and could pave the way for deeper political and economic cooperation between Rwanda and Uganda after years of tension.