Uganda has reopened its border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), six months after closing key crossings due to advances by the M23 rebel group. The affected border points, Bunagana and Ishasha, are located in North Kivu province and were shut down following the group’s seizure of Goma.
- Uganda has reopened its borders with the DRC, following a six-month closure due to the M23 rebel group’s advances.
- The closure impacted key border points, notably Bunagana and Ishasha, to curb the rebel group’s incursions.
- The decision coincides with a peace agreement signed in Washington to address conflicts involving the M23 group.
Ugandan military assistant Chris Magezi confirmed the reopening on social media, stating that the move was made under direct orders from President Yoweri Museveni. He added that those responsible for the initial closure and for disrupting trade between the two communities will be investigated.
The reopening comes shortly after the signing of a peace agreement in Washington, where Rwanda and the DRC committed to supporting future talks between the M23 rebels and the Congolese army.
The M23 group, composed largely of ethnic Tutsis, resumed its offensive in late 2021. Fighting has intensified since then, with the group capturing large areas of eastern Congo, including Goma. Thousands of civilians have been forced to flee, including from camps near Kibumba, about 40 kilometers north of Goma.
The Congolese government has repeatedly accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 with weapons and troops. These accusations have been supported by the United States, citing credible intelligence reports. Rwanda has denied involvement with the rebel group.
Uganda–Congo Border Closures
Uganda has closed its border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) twice due to threats from the M23 rebel group.
The first closure occurred in July 2012 after M23 launched an offensive in eastern DRC, prompting Uganda to shut the Bunagana crossing for security reasons. The border later reopened as tensions eased.
In January 2024, Uganda again closed the Bunagana and Ishasha crossings after renewed M23 advances near Goma.
The six-month closure ended in July 2025, following a lull in fighting and pressure to resume cross-border trade.
Uganda reopens additional border points in M23-held areas
Additional border points, including Busanza, have also been reopened, according to Ugandan military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Felix Kulayigye.
He confirmed that the directive was implemented as instructed by President Museveni to restore the movement of goods and people between the two countries.
Uganda had initially closed the posts following the M23’s capture of Goma, but also in protest after the rebels reportedly blocked Ugandan cargo trucks from entering eastern Congo.
With the border reopened and international diplomacy underway, regional dynamics are shifting. The success of upcoming peace talks will depend heavily on continued pressure from international stakeholders and a willingness among the parties to compromise.
Fathia Olasupo
