Rwanda, Uganda, discuss cross-border issues

MUSANZE - A delegation of 40 officials from the border districts of Kabale and Kisoro in Uganda, and their counterparts from northern Rwanda have agreed to fight illegal cross-border crimes and promote bilateral trade. This was one of the resolutions reached at a one-day meeting held in Musanze District, in the Northern Province on Tuesday. The meeting which was attended by the First Secretary at the Ugandan High Commission in Kigali, Anne Katusiime, was chaired by provincial Governor, Aime Bosenibamwe, and attended by security officials, immigration officers, mayors from the province and business leaders. Uganda’s delegation which was led by the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Kabale District, Cox Nyakairu Apuli, included Kisoro RDC, Haji Ahmed Mustaf Doka, Kisoro LCV Chairman Dr Philemon Mateke, together with security officials, immigration officials, customs, town clerks and the principle state attorney from Kabale. In his opening remarks, Bosenibamwe pointed out the need for stringent measures and close cooperation between local leaders so as to fight cross-border crimes. “Our countries are living in the age of regional and international cooperation. National borders no longer exist in the minds of our citizens who are consumers of services across the borders,” he said. Cox Nyakairu cited cattle rustling and illegal immigrants among the issues that need to be tackled jointly. The mayors of Musanze, Burera and Gicumbi highlighted opportunities in the commercial sector, challenges in the fight against cross-border crimes and the way forward. The meeting agreed to ensure that traders along the borders export products certified by relevant authorities. On banned liquor, particularly Kanyanga, the meeting resolved that authorities from Uganda and Rwanda borders should coordinate and co-operate to enforce the law against the illicit brew. Ends