Uganda has reopened its border crossings with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) at Bunagana and Ishasha, areas currently under the control of the M23 rebel group.

The move follows a Presidential directive relayed through the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), according to Col. Chris Magezi.

He described the earlier closure of the crossings as both criminal and counterproductive, noting that the blockade disrupted meaningful cross-border trade and harmed the livelihoods of local communities that depend on it.

“It was a criminal and counterproductive move to block meaningful trade between neighbouring communities whose survival and prosperity depends on it. Those who did it are being investigated,” Col. Magezi stated.

The Bunagana and Ishasha crossings are vital economic arteries for communities in southwestern Uganda and eastern DRC, facilitating trade in agricultural goods, livestock, and daily essentials.

Their closure had sparked concern among traders and residents who rely on these routes for survival.

This decision comes amid ongoing regional efforts to de-escalate tensions in eastern Congo, where the M23 rebel group continues to occupy parts of North Kivu province.

Uganda maintains a neutral posture in the conflict but has repeatedly emphasized the importance of economic resilience and community welfare along its border regions.

On Wednesday, the CDF revealed that

"The President and Commander-in-Chief of the UPDF has said ALL border posts that are situated next to M23 positions must be IMMEDIATELY RE-OPENED. These are Bunagana, Ishasha etc. NOTHING should stop our people's trade,”

The CDF further announced that a probe had been launched into the circumstances under which the border closures were enforced, describing the move as an obstruction of “natural commerce.”

“We shall investigate ALL the officials who blocked this natural commerce,” he said.

The reopening of the borders is expected to revive local economies, restore livelihoods, and ease cross-border movement, even as broader political and security negotiations continue in the Great Lakes region.