Katuna Traders Push for Action Against Rwandan Border Restrictions

Small-scale cross-border traders operating at the Katuna border post in Kabale District have voiced serious concerns over ongoing trade restrictions enforced by Rwandan border authorities. Traders warn that the challenging business environment is pushing many local operators into smuggling through porous routes.

During a field visit by the parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs, led by Rubanda West MP Bruce Balaba Kabaasa, local trader associations urged the government to intervene. Joan Arineitwe, programs officer for the Katuna Women Cross-Border Traders Association, accused border managers of applying double standards. She stated that small quantities of goods are frequently rejected under the guise of being substandard, while identical products transported in bulk trucks are cleared without issue.

Justus Tindimurekura, chairman of the Katuna Cross-Border Traders Association, added that these barriers contradict regional integration provisions under the East African Community (EAC) Customs Management Act, which aims to facilitate seamless trade. Basic agricultural items like beans and onions are routinely blocked from crossing.

Uganda’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Maj Gen (Rtd) Robert Rusoke, noted that diplomatic channels through the Joint Permanent Commission remain active to address these bottlenecks. Meanwhile, immigration head Canary Mubangizi requested increased funding to establish more official border points to streamline lawful movement. The parliamentary committee assured stakeholders that a comprehensive report with recommendations will be compiled following further consultations with technocrats.

Read more about this story on the Daily Monitor.