Residents at the Bunagana border point in Kisoro District have expressed deep frustration over the ongoing inactivity at the Uganda–Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) border, despite its official reopening by local security authorities.
The border, which had been closed since June 13, 2022, following security threats from the M23 rebel occupation of Eastern DRC, was officially reopened on July 10, 2025. The ceremony, held at 9:15 a.m., was presided over by Kisoro Resident District Commissioner Hajji Baddru Sebyalla and other district leaders, following a directive from the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
The reopening was expected to revive cross-border trade and improve economic activity. However, locals say the situation remains unchanged. Muhawe Robert, a casual laborer at the border, says the economic situation has worsened due to continued inactivity.
CUE IN MUHAWE……ON THE SITUATION…….RR//
Hashaka Godfrey, Chairperson of the Bunagana Business Community, says the absence of cargo trucks has crippled economic livelihoods.
CUE IN HASHAKA…..ON THE SITUATION……RR//
Meanwhile, Bunagana Town Council Mayor, Ndayambaje Ismail, urged the Ugandan government to engage the DRC government and M23 rebels in peace talks to restore stability and trade.
CUE IN NDAYAMBAJE……ON THE CALL……RR//
Despite the official reopening, residents warn that without restored peace and consistent trade flow, the local economy will continue to decline.
