The Government of Uganda has officially reopened the Bunagana border post with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), marking a major milestone in restoring cross-border trade, regional communication and economic stability.
The reopening ceremony was held on Thursday morning at 9:15 AM at the Bunagana border point, located in Kisoro District. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni was represented by the Kisoro Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Hajji Badru Sebyalla, who officiated as the chief guest.
The Bunagana border was initially closed on June 13, 2022, due to security threats after the M23 rebel group captured the area in eastern DRC. The reopening follows a directive from the Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who ordered the immediate reopening of all Ugandan border posts near territories controlled by the M23.
Speaking at the event, RDC Ssebyalla commended President Museveni for his commitment to regional peace and stability. He also acknowledged the role of the East African Community in facilitating the reopening process.
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Representing the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bunagana Mayor Desire Kanyamarere expressed relief and optimism, noting that the border closure had severely impacted residents with increased famine, unemployment, and poverty. He expressed hope that renewed cross-border activities will revitalize local economies on both sides.
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Bufumbira South MP, Hon. Alex Niyonsaba Seruganda, praised Gen. Muhoozi for his instrumental role in resolving the long-standing issue. He encouraged locals to use the border legally and in accordance with Uganda’s immigration and customs laws.
Kisoro District LCV Chairperson, Abel Bizimana, highlighted the importance of fostering people-to-people connections, encouraging cultural exchange, intermarriages, and religious unity across the border.
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Members of the business community, including Bunagana Business Chairperson Hashaka Geofrey and local trader Richard Hakizimana, expressed relief following nearly three years of economic stagnation. They pledged to make productive use of the newly reopened border.
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Residents from the DRC also expressed gratitude, describing the border reopening as a beacon of hope, resilience, and renewed cooperation.
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However, Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) officer at Bunagana, Rodgers David, and immigration official Ronald Ssemba noted that they are still awaiting formal administrative directives from central authorities. They urged the public to be patient as official procedures are finalized.
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The reopening of the Bunagana border post is expected to breathe new life into cross-border commerce and relations, offering a fresh chapter of peace, prosperity, and cooperation between Uganda and the DRC.
The Source Reports.
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