The temporary closure of the Uganda–DRC Bunagana border in Kisoro District has entered its second week, leaving Congolese travellers stranded amid conflicting cross-border directives linked to Ebola prevention measures.
While Ugandan authorities are allowing Congolese nationals to return home after health screening, and permitting Ugandans into the Democratic Republic of Congo following testing, several Congolese travellers say they are being turned back by DRC officials even after being cleared on the Uganda side.
The situation has created confusion and frustration at the border, with some people stuck in “No Man’s Land” waiting for direction.
Security and health teams have intensified screening at all entry points, allowing only limited movement after checks. However, some residents have accused officials of mistreatment and extortion, while others allege that security personnel have beaten people caught using porous crossing routes.
Kisoro District Resident District Commissioner Hajji Badru Sebyala urged calm as consultations between Uganda and DRC continue over border management and Ebola control measures. He said security deployments remain in place to prevent illegal crossings.
“Security is deployed at all border points to stop use of porous borders as both governments consult on Ebola prevention measures. The public should remain calm,” Sebyala said.
Health official Jacqueline Uwineza said screening is ongoing at all entry points, but noted that DRC’s refusal to accept some Ugandan-cleared Congolese nationals remains a major challenge. She added that many Congolese are still entering Uganda through informal routes, while others cross for food deliveries and as returning refugees.
“Many Congolese continue entering through porous borders which worries authorities. More people are crossing into DRC to deliver food and as refugee returnees, but screening remains tight,” Uwineza said.
Authorities on both sides are expected to continue consultations as the border restrictions persist, with travellers urging a quicker resolution to ease the humanitarian strain at Bunagana.