Representatives from the Governments of Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are currently meeting in Bujumbura for a three-day session to review progress on the reopening of the Buganda/Nyamoma and Mparambo/Rubenga border posts.

The officials will also use this opportunity to agree on a roadmap outlining the remaining actions needed to facilitate the border reopening. Their first meeting, held in December 2024 in Uvira, DRC, identified key activities essential for reopening, including constructing temporary administrative offices on both sides of the border, providing boats to cross the Rusizi River pending the construction of bridges, and harmonizing migration documents. The plan also involves signing a joint communiqué between the political authorities of both countries to formalize the reopening process.

During the second bilateral meeting in Bujumbura on October 22, 2025, Dr. Christopher Onyango, Director of Trade and Customs at the COMESA Secretariat, praised the two governments for their commitment to promoting small-scale cross-border trade.

He emphasized that reopening these borders would be a significant milestone with broad economic, social, political, and psychological benefits. “It would send a powerful message of hope to the thousands of people affected by the border closures,” he said. “Reopening will also enhance regional stability and reinforce confidence in the commitment of both governments to security improvements and public health, thereby boosting investor and public confidence in the process.”

This initiative is supported by the World Bank through the Great Lakes Trade Facilitation and Integration Project (GLTFIP).