The bustling activity of Rwandans and Congolese, once common from dawn till dusk, exchanging goods, and currencies, has been visibly reduced. The imposition of a 3:00 p.m. curfew by the DRC has further affected these cross-border interactions.

Jean Pierre, a young man from the DRC working as a porter at the border, shared his concerns about the dwindling traffic, highlighting a decrease in opportunities to earn a livelihood. Despite these challenges, individuals with disabilities continue to traverse the border with goods-laden bicycles, though in reduced numbers. Additionally, large trucks transporting goods to Goma are subject to rigorous inspections before clearance.

One of the milk vendors at the La Corniche border shared their experiences, stating, "There’s theft, and sometimes, upon arrival, we’re met with scolding. It makes me think, ’I should just save myself; God will handle the rest.’"

They also highlighted the discrimination they face for being Rwandan, explaining, "We’re often chased away simply because of our nationality. When I’m forced to flee, it’s because I’ve been labeled a ’haramu’ and told to ’run away because you’re Rwandan.’ This poses a significant challenge for us milk sellers. Being Rwandan is like a stigma, even if some can conceal it. Since the milk is known to originate from Rwanda, any accusation can be made against us. Being associated with M23 could lead to our disappearance."

DRC accuses Rwanda of supporting M23 rebel group, allegations which Kigali rejects and urges the neighboring country to solve internal problems without seeking justifications through blame games.

Data from the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) shows the importance of trade between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In the second quarter of 2022, the DRC was the top destination for Rwandan re-exported goods, receiving products worth $152.97 million. By the second quarter of 2023, it remained a significant trade partner, importing $321.94 million worth of goods from Rwanda, making it the second-largest recipient of Rwandan exports.

At the La Corniche (Grande Barrière) border, the flow of goods from the DRC into Rwanda persists, underscoring potential hurdles in cross-border trade. Rubavu District’s Executive Secretary, Ruhamyambuga Olivier, emphasized the enduring relationship between the two nations’ citizens, despite political tensions. He asserted the people’s resilience in maintaining mutual respect and understanding, amidst external pressures to foster discord.

Rubavu District, situated on the eastern border with the DRC, is a vital hub for cross-border commerce and hosts a significant foreign population. According to the 2022 population census, Rubavu is home to 2,780 foreigners. The daily cross-border movement has seen a drastic reduction from pre-pandemic levels, indicating the profound impact of both health and security challenges on regional trade and mobility.

Rubavu District has observed a significant decrease in the number of individuals crossing the border due to the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing conflict in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).