Rusizi 1 & 2 Border Posts – Key Gateways for Rwanda-DRC Trade

Rusizi One is a bridge that separates the Democratic Republic of Congo (in Bukavu) from Rwanda in a place called Cyangugu. The bridge crosses the Ruzizi River, which flows between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

This river is known for a sad history from the time of the genocide, when many bodies were thrown into it. The flow of corpses caused a health emergency, as the bodies reached not only Congo but also Uganda. Later, the situation was brought under control, and the bodies were collected and buried in genocide memorial centers in Rwanda.

The Ruzizi River is located at the southern end of Lake Kivu. It plays an important role in trade between Rwanda and the nearby town of Bukavu in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The government believes that, once the border post is fully developed, it will help the economy grow and improve the relationship between the two countries. The site is expected to handle over 2.3 million passengers and 1.3 million tonnes of cargo every year, making cross-border trade easier.

The first bridge between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo was built in 1935. It was later destroyed and rebuilt in 1974 using stronger materials like metal and wood. However, the bridge could only support less than three tonnes. It became old and weak, with poor infrastructure and slow movement of goods and people.

To improve this, a new bridge was built with the ability to carry up to 30 tonnes. The construction was supported financially by the European Union under the economic program of the Economic Community of the Great Lakes Countries. The bridge was officially opened on June 19, 2019, by the Mayor of Bukavu, Bilubi Ulengabo Meschac.

This new bridge is the second longest after Pont Ruzizi Two, which is also a border crossing point between Rwanda and Congo. Many meetings about these projects have been held with support from the European Union, in partnership with the International Organization for Migration and TradeMark East Africa.

When the project is fully completed, it will make it easier for people and goods to move between Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the entire Great Lakes region.

Trade activities take place through both Rusizi One and Rusizi Two border posts.

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