Uganda government welcomes move to open Gatuna border, commits to work with Rwanda government

In a statement issued by the Rwanda Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Gatuna/ Katuna border post between Uganda and Rwanda that has been closed for close to three years will be reopened on 31. January and health authorities in both countries will work together to put in place necessary measures to facilitate movement in the context of covid19.

On February 27, 2019, Rwanda closed its borders to Uganda following an advisory by Rwanda’s President, Paul Kagame to his nationals against traveling to Uganda, saying their safety is notguaranteed but all this was dismissed the Ugandan authorities.

The move has come in time after the visit by the Commander of land forces in Uganda’s Peoples Defense Forces Lt. Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba to Rwanda on the 22. January which assured authorities that their is a process to solve issues raised by Rwanda and also assurances on commitments to address the remaining obstacles.

According to the statement, the Rwanda government promises to remain committed to ongoing efforts to resolve pending issues between the counterpart and it believes that this border reopening move will contribute positively to the speedy normalization of relations between the two nations.

According to Vincent Bagiire the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Internal Affairs in Uganda, this move by their counterpart is highly welcomed and they look forward to harmonize these relationships with Rwanda plus they will also start preparations of operations at the border as soon as they finalize with the Rwanda Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Different talks have been held to stabilize relations of the two countries, but according to the statement this move  was taken according to the communiqué of the 4th Quadripartite summit held on 21st February 2020 in Gatuna.

Truck drivers, small business owners near the border, families that have loved ones in Rwanda, and many others have welcomed this move that has been seen by many as a second New Year celebration.