Congolese continues flocking into Uganda

Congolese nationals have continued flocking into Uganda through porous border points in Mpondwe-Lhubiriha Town Council, Kasese District, despite the border closure due to the Ebola outbreak.

Last week, the Government of Uganda closed its border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as part of measures to contain the spread of the Ebola virus.

Mr. Stanley Bwambale, Chairperson Vendors at the Customs Border Point, said that Congolese nationals continue entering Uganda through porous borders to conduct business, fishing, farming, and other activities after allegedly bribing some officials deployed at the Uganda–DR Congo border with ten thousand shillings. Mr. Stanley speaking…

According to intelligence reports, many Congolese nationals have illegally entered Uganda through the porous routes of Banamayi, Kasenyi, Kisolholho, and Kibwe.

Ms. Sofia Kayolo, a matooke dealer, alleged that security personnel have repeatedly received bribes from Congolese nationals, even after the government suspended business activities at the border. She, together with Mr. Amidu Masereka and other traders, appealed to President Museveni to lift the ban, arguing that people’s livelihoods are at risk. Ms. Sofia, Amidu..

Another vendor, Harriet Masika, who deals in onions, said her stock had decomposed in storage following the border closure. She requested the government to enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) rather than completely suspending market operations. Ms. Masika speaking…

Yesterday, the Kasese Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Lt. Joe Walunsimbi, allowed small cargo trucks to cross into DR Congo. However, he cautioned the business community to remain calm and await the government’s official pronouncement regarding the reopening of the border.

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