The M23 rebel group has expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda, following his decision to reopen all border crossings linking the areas under M23 control in the DR Congo with Uganda.
On Wednesday, July 9, Uganda made the decision to reopen the borders.
The announcement was made by Colonel Chris Magezi, speaking on behalf of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the spokesperson of the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and son of President Museveni.
Writing on X (formerly Twitter) on behalf of Gen. Muhoozi, Magezi said:
“The President and Commander-in-Chief of the UPDF has ordered the immediate reopening of all borders near M23-controlled zones. These include Bunagana, Ishasha, and others. Nothing should block the free flow of trade among our people.”
He added that an investigation must be carried out to identify officials responsible for previously blocking cross-border trade between Congolese and Ugandans.
On the morning of Thursday, July 10, the borders were officially reopened.
The M23 movement, through its president Bertrand Bisimwa, thanked President Museveni for the decision.
He wrote on X:
“We thank the President of the Republic of Uganda, His Excellency Yoweri Museveni, for his decision to reopen all eastern Congo borders. This shows leadership that prioritizes the people in all political decisions.”
The borders, including Bunagana, were closed in 2022, after the M23 rebels seized control of several territories, including the city of Bunagana.
According to Uganda’s Revenue Authority, the border closure was costing the country over 500 million shillings in revenue every year.
