BUGESERA - Officials of eastern Rwanda, and their Burundian counterparts from Muyinga and Kirundo provinces, yesterday met at Nemba border post in Bugesera District to discuss ways of securing their common border.

The Rwandan team was led by the Governor of the Eastern Province, Ephraim Kabaija, while the Burundian delegation was led by governors; Petronie Sindabahaga of Muyinga Province and Reverien Nzigamasabo of Kirundo Province.

Kabaija said that both countries relations which should be consolidated, adding that the issue of porous borders should be handled amicably to check cross-border crimes.

"The closure of the illegal entry points will stop deaths of people travelling in poor constructed boats trying to cross at night. Theft and general criminality are exacerbated by the porous borders,” he said.

Muyinga Governor, Petronie Sindabahaga, welcomed the meeting, saying they would work with other authorities to get a lasting solution to the issue.

She added that she was not aware that many Burundians find their way to Rwanda illegally.

"May be it’s because I am new in the office. I didn’t know that Burundians risk crossing lakes and rivers, in the manner I have heard. I am happy that Rwandan authorities have revealed this to us…something must be done,” she said.

The officials from the two countries agreed to present the matter before their respective superiors. The meeting came days after officials of eastern Rwanda noted that the porous borders were causing insecurity.

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