Rwanda, Uganda open new border crossing

Rwanda has opened a new border crossing with Uganda in the eastern district of Nyagatare, local authorities said Thursday, in the latest sign of improving relations between the two neighboring countries.

"Rwempasha border post was opened on Wednesday, and is expected to reduce the time taken to travel to and from Uganda, boost cross border trade and reduce illicit movements for both Rwandan and Ugandan border communities," Nyagatare district mayor Stephen Gasana told reporters at the border post.

He encouraged residents to take advantage of the new border post, saying its opening will help reduce transport costs for traveling to and from Uganda. The new post is in addition to two other border crossings between the two countries.

Gasana said plans are underway to tarmac the road from Nyagarate to the border post in order to ease the movement of people and goods.

Residents said the new border post will also help strengthen social bonds as many have relatives on either side of the border.

Rwanda's main trading partners are within the East Africa Community bloc, according to the Ministry of Trade and Industry. But trade particularly with Uganda has been drastically affected after Rwanda closed its main border with Uganda due to political tensions. The border was reopened last year.