WESTREN PROVINCE

RUBAVU — Business has improved in Gisenyi town due to improved security in neighboring Congolese town of Goma, merchants say.

Insecurity that has characterized DR Congo’s North Kivu Province for years had created insecurity to Rwandans in Goma, where many of them were reportedly arrested, tortured and kept in safe houses for months on allegations of supporting or intentions to join Laurent Nkunda—a Congolese rebel leader.

The situation had generated fear among the Rwandan business men in Gisenyi town who have over time transacted business with their counterparts in Goma.

"There is a time when we feared to cross to DR Congo due to mistreatment subjected to Rwandans by DR Congo soldiers. Although there are still conflicts in some parts of the country, I’m personally optimistic the recent talks between the rebels and DRC government might yield something," said Alfred Habineza a trader.

District leaders had always urged residents in the district to cut visits to DR Congo after numerous claims of arrests of Rwandans in Goma were reported last year.

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