Small Burundian traders face serious obstacles in their crossing to the town and territory of Uvira, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In response to this, actors of the new Congolese civil society in South Kivu are mobilizing to prevent any entry of Burundian traders into Uvira. This action aims to put pressure on the Congolese authorities and ask neighboring Burundi to respect the trade agreements in force in the region.
For several years, Congolese traders have faced harassment and fines when they cross the border into Burundi. Unfortunately, these problems persist despite the agreements signed between the two COMESA countries. These agreements, which aim to facilitate trade, provide a list of products exempt from taxes and restrictions.
However, Burundi does not specify which products are concerned and in what quantity they can be transported to the DRC. This situation causes many problems for small cross-border traders, who are victims of acts of vandalism and harassment at the various barriers between Gatumba and Kajaga in Burundi.
Faced with this situation, civil society in Uvira decided to go to the border to prevent the entry of Burundian traders until a solution is found. This action puts nearly 200 small Burundian traders in a blocked situation.
However, it is important to emphasize that the Congolese and Burundian authorities have taken up this matter. The head of post of Burundi, Colonel Bonaventure Nijimbere, went to the DRC to assess the situation and the DRC ambassador to Burundi, Willy Mabika, also traveled to the border. It is essential that the two countries work together to resolve this problem and promote the free movement of people and goods, essential for the development of the sub-region.
In conclusion, the harassment suffered by Congolese traders in Burundi led to action by civil society in Uvira to prevent the entry of Burundian traders into Uvira. However, it is crucial that the authorities of both countries find a solution to this problem in order to promote trade and guarantee the security of Congolese citizens.