President Paul Kagame and Uganda's senior presidential advisor in charge of special operations, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, held discussions on ways to further strengthen bilateral relations between Rwanda and Uganda.

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Kainerugaba who has been in Rwanda since April 23 was hosted to his 49th birthday celebration in a banquet that brought together some of the close friends and relatives of the first family.

Both Kagame and Kainerugaba emphasized the growing friendship between both countries at peace.

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The President thanked him for his role and conviction in shaping peace between the two countries and "for being the bridge used to cross from one side to another.”

Kainerugaba played an important role in putting an end to political tensions between the two countries which also led to the reopening of the Gatuna border that had been closed for three years.

This was also marked with a thanksgiving event he hosted on April 19, in Kabale District in south western Uganda where citizens of both countries met to celebrate the resumption of vibrant activity at Gatuna border post.

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Part of the activities included a friendly football game played between Kigezi Select and Gicumbi FC at Kigezi High School playground hosted in Kabale District. The game ended with a 4-2 score in favour of the Ugandan side.

Dozens of musicians from both Rwanda and Uganda, including Massamba Intore, Bebe Cool, Spice Diana, also performed at a concert dubbed ‘Rukundo Egumeho’.

The revamping relations have translated into increased cross border trade between both countries that they all significantly benefit from.