MUSEVENI: Stop smuggling goods to Rwanda

President Yoweri Museveni has advised the people of Kabale district to avoid smuggled goods and instead engage in formal business.

Museveni made the remark at the Katuna border crossing on his way back from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, where he had gone to attend the Commonwealth Heads of State and Government Meeting-CHOGM.

“The border is now open officially.” Participate in formal business for those in the commercial sector. “The construction of the border post premises, as well as the road itself, is ongoing to meet the required standards,” Museveni said.

Rwanda had closed all land borders with Uganda for nearly three years, accusing it of targeting Rwandans, until early this year. Attempts to bury the hatchet between the two countries all failed. The tensions were relieved, however, after Uganda made drastic changes in the leadership of its security forces, dismissing individuals Rwanda had accused of being the masterminds of the arrests.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame visited Uganda about two months ago, after a three-year absence. Meanwhile, Museveni has directed Kabale residents to focus on eradicating poverty in their homes. He urged people to implement the Parish Development Model (PDM) objectives outlined by the government in order to eradicate poverty in their individual homes.

“People with small landholdings will benefit from the scheme.” The President also informed them that their respective area MPs in the country will educate their constituents on how the fund will be used in their areas. “The Emyooga funds are another source of funding for your local communities.” “This also helps people with small landholdings,” he added.

Museveni was greeted at the Katuna border post by the Minister of State for Transport, Byamukama Fred, the Minister of State for Industry and area MP, David Bahati, the UPDF 2nd Division Commander, Maj. Gen. Francis Takirwa, the Kabale district, RDC Nyakahuma Godfrey, the Kabale LCV Chairman, Nshangabasheija Nelson, UNRA contractors, and border post officials.