At the Grande Barrière border point linking Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rubavu in Rwanda, movement is constant. Crowds of men, women, and children wait in long lines with suitcases and goods, reflecting the heavy daily traffic across one of the busiest borders in the world.
The administration of the M23, which has controlled Goma since January, has announced extended operating hours at the crossing. Previously open from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. under Kinshasa’s authority, the border will now remain open until midnight.
The rebels say the decision aims to ease growing migratory flows and support cross-border trade.
“We came for the people, we must help the people, that’s how it is. Movement has increased, and we cannot stop the movement of more than two million people here in Goma,” said Julien Katembo, the AFC/M23 mayor of Goma.
Local traders welcomed the move, describing it as a boost to the economy. “There will no longer be pressure from the closure at 3 p.m.,” said small-scale trader Kévin Amani.
Civil society in Goma also acknowledged the economic benefits but expects the DRC government to step up its accusations against Rwanda, which it accuses of backing M23 rebels—claims Kigali continues to deny.
With Goma International Airport closed since January, many travellers, both local and international, have been forced to rely on crossing into Rwanda as their only route.
