Ntoroko, Uganda: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has ordered the immediate re-opening of Uganda’s border posts near M23 rebel-held territories in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), directing that cross-border trade must resume without interference.
The directive, announced by Col. Chris Magezi, Military Assistant to the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, affects key border points such as Bunagana and Ishasha, which have remained closed due to ongoing instability in North Kivu.
“Nothing should stop our people’s trade. We shall investigate ALL the officials who blocked this natural commerce,” President Museveni was quoted in a statement shared by Col. Magezi on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, July 10, 2025.
The border closures, initially imposed due to insecurity, have disrupted trade and livelihoods in southwestern Uganda, particularly in Kisoro and Kanungu districts. Local traders, transporters, and business owners have complained of heavy losses since M23 rebels took control of surrounding territories.
President Museveni’s directive appears aimed at circumventing economic sabotage and countering claims that Ugandan security or bureaucratic interests have stifled regional trade.
“President and Commander-in-Chief of the UPDF, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has instructed that all border posts located adjacent to M23 positions must be immediately reopened,” Magezi added.
Ugandan authorities have in recent months walked a diplomatic tightrope around the M23 situation, with Kinshasa accusing Kigali of backing the rebel outfit—a claim Rwanda denies. Museveni’s move may signal a pragmatic shift toward economic continuity, regardless of who controls territory across the border.
Reports indicate that the M23 rebels are running a parallel governance system in parts of North Kivu, collecting up to $1 million monthly from taxes on minerals, fuel, and cross-border commerce.
The re-opening of border points under such conditions may expose Uganda to international scrutiny, but government sources insist trade is vital for survival in border communities.
The President has further ordered investigations into officials allegedly responsible for blocking cross-border commerce, signaling possible disciplinary action against elements within local administration or security.
This latest development underscores Uganda’s growing interest in stabilizing its border economy, even as the region continues to grapple with volatility in eastern DRC.
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