Rwanda, Uganda: Rwanda to reopen its border with Uganda Jan. 31

Event

Authorities in Rwanda announced Jan. 28 they would reopen the Gatuna border crossing with Uganda from Jan. 31, following a three-year closure. The announcement came as Rwandan and Ugandan governments intended to normalize relations following years of tensions.

Despite the reopening of the Gatuna crossing, travel disruptions on both sides of the border will likely continue in the coming weeks. An increased security deployment is also likely to monitor the movement of people and goods.

Context

Relations between Rwanda and Uganda deteriorated as each accused the other of meddling in its internal affairs, sparking increased tensions and the subsequent closure of the Gatuna border crossing in late February 2019.

The Gatuna border crossing is the busiest and shortest route for the transit of goods from Kenya and Uganda to Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The border restrictions severely affected trade between the two countries, although the Kagitumba and Cyanika border crossings with Uganda have remained open over that period.

Advice

Confirm route status before attempting to travel or route freight shipments through the crossings between Rwanda and Uganda. Ensure all travel and identification papers are in order. Remain non-confrontational with customs and immigration officials at all times.