Border closure between Congo and Rwanda impacts local economy

Residents of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo are facing economic hardship following the closure of border crossings with Rwanda. The shutdown has severely disrupted daily life, particularly for small-scale traders who relied on cross-border commerce.

everyday traders hit hard by border restrictions

Jacques Safari, a street vendor selling eggs in Goma, has seen his income plummet since the border closed. “Our earnings have dropped sharply. Before, I used to sell up to five trays of eggs a day. Now, I can barely sell two,” he explains. “Most of my customers were travelers crossing from Rwanda. Without them, business has dried up.”

The disruption has also affected wholesale traders. Hamuli Kasilembo, a wholesaler at Birere market, struggles to source goods. “We used to cross the border easily for supplies. Now, everything has become difficult. Even finding buyers is a challenge because money isn’t circulating like before.”

supply chain disruptions and economic ripple effects

Economic analysts warn that the border closure will have long-term consequences. The flow of goods between Goma and Gisenyi was vital for both cities, supporting countless traders and businesses. “Closing the border disproportionately affects small traders who depend on daily cross-border transactions,” says economist Alphonse Muanda. “Many relied on buying bulk supplies—rice, soap, and other essentials—from Gisenyi.”

The Rwandan government enforced the closure citing health concerns to prevent the spread of Ebola. While the measure remains in place, locals in Goma fear worsening economic instability in the coming weeks.