Traders are optimistic that the soon-to-be completed Kagitumba-Mirama Hills one-stop border post between Rwanda and Uganda will boost cross-border trade in the area.

The two countries are constructing a One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) in the area to reduce unnecessary delays in customs clearance and improve cross-border                                         trade.

At least Rwf600m was earmarked for the project although authorities say the cost may increase because of the need to construct a new bridge at the border.

"The traffic flow is far beyond what the current bridge can handle. Construction of a new bridge may be inevitable,” said Honore Munyenshongore, an engineer with Rwanda Transport Development Authority. 

 The OSBP will help improve inspection of goods by creating a single joint inspection exercise, where goods will be inspected after reaching their destination, officials say.

According to plans, goods coming from DRC through Rwanda to Uganda will be inspected on the Ugandan side, while goods from Kenya through Uganda to Rwanda will only be inspected on the Rwandan side. 

Businesses operating in the region are optimistic that the OSBP will be cost effective; a factor they believe will help increase the region’s competitiveness.

Traders who spoke to The New Times, said they expected the new single border post to reduce unnecessary delays and red tape.

Richard Musoni, a Rwandan, who regularly travels to Uganda and beyond to do business, said he expects to spend less time at the border.  

"We used to spend several hours clearing at the border, but now that we will be accessing services in one place, it will be much easier. This is a positive  development,” Musoni said.  

John Serunjoji, a Ugandan trader, also commended the project, saying it will accelerate trade in the region. 

"The OSBP will considerably save us time and cost of moving goods,” he said.

Fabrice Habanabakize, the chairperson of the Public Sector Federation (PSF) in Eastern Province, said the OSBP was important for handling cargo and ensuring that traders spend less time at the border. 

He said the OSBP would, among others, use simplified procedures and joint processing whenever appropriate, adding that it will also reduce the time trucks and people use to cross the border.

The OSBP construction started in June 2012.

A one-stop border arrangement is currently operational at the two border posts between Rwanda and Burundi, namely  Ruhwa and Gasenyi Nemba in Rusizi and Bugesera districts, respectively.

Construction works are also underway at the Rusumo border between Rwanda and Tanzania to kickstart similar operations there.