The border post between Uvira in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and Gatumba in neighbouring Burundi reopened on Monday, ending more than two months of closure.
Burundian authorities shut down the crossing on December 10 after Uvira fell under the control of the March 23 Movement (M23), disrupting a vital transit route for traders and residents.
In January 2026, the Congolese government regained control of Uvira, the second-largest city in South Kivu province. The city had been serving as a provisional administrative centre after the provincial capital, Bukavu, was seized by M23 fighters in February 2025.
Authorities from both countries have now agreed to resume cross-border movement under standard immigration and customs procedures, according to local media reports.
“Those currently in Burundi can cross today in complete tranquillity,” migration authorities said in a statement cited by local outlets.
The reopening is expected to restore trade and ease movement for residents who rely on the crossing for business and family ties between the two neighbouring countries.
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