The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Burundi reopened their border crossing at Uvira on Monday, February 23, ending a two-month closure that isolated the strategic Congolese city and disrupted vital cross-border trade. The shutdown was imposed by Burundi following the capture of Uvira by the AFC/M23 rebel coalition, a move that triggered a local security crisis and displaced thousands.
On the first day of reopening, hundreds gathered at the Kavimvira post on the Congolese side and Gatumba on the Burundian side. Traders, transporters, students, and families separated during the crisis streamed across the barrier, signaling the resumption of economic and social life. Motorcycle taxis resumed service, goods-laden bicycles reappeared, and informal trade—the economic engine of Uvira—restarted.
The border closure had exacerbated hardship in the lakeside city, which relies heavily on daily exchanges with neighboring Burundi. The interruption caused price spikes, shortages of basic goods, and significant income loss for households dependent on cross-border commerce. For many Congolese who fled to Burundi seeking safety from the M23 advance, the reopening offered a path home. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) noted that the rebel offensive in South Kivu province prompted a notable influx of refugees into Burundi.
“I am very happy, because for a long time we were looking for a way to return home, but it was not possible,” said Dalili Mussa, a Congolese citizen stranded in Burundi during the shutdown. Aline Safi, another refugee, recalled fleeing gunfire and explosions: “We were in the house with the children when the crackling of bullets and bombs began. That’s when we decided to flee to Burundi.” She returned to Uvira with hope of rebuilding.
Trader Bosco Amani described the collective relief: “The reopening of the border is a great joy for us and for all the residents of Uvira. Even in Gatumba, there is celebration.” The decision, announced by South Kivu’s governor the previous day, marks a critical economic and symbolic turning point for the region.
However, officials and residents alike stress that stability remains fragile. Visible scars from recent clashes and ongoing security concerns temper the euphoria. The long-term viability of the reopened border now hinges on sustained cooperation between Congolese and Burundian authorities to guarantee security and freedom of movement. As foot traffic resumes at Kavimvira, Uvira takes its first cautious steps toward recovery, with the border’s permanent status resting on a fragile peace.
