Ebola closure cuts off a lifeline between DRC’s Goma and Rwanda
Summary
The border crossing between Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Gisenyi in Rwanda has been closed since May 16 due to a confirmed Ebola case in Goma. This closure has stopped daily trade between the two cities, affecting many people who rely on cross-border commerce for their livelihoods.Key Facts
- The Petite Barrière border post connects Goma (DRC) and Gisenyi (Rwanda).
- Thousands of people crossed this border daily before the closure, many as small-scale traders.
- The border was closed after an Ebola case was confirmed in Goma on May 16, 2024.
- Rwanda banned entry to travelers who had been in the DRC in the past 30 days to prevent Ebola spreading.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) advises against closing borders during Ebola outbreaks, recommending traveler monitoring instead.
- Traders in Goma, like tomato and pepper sellers, have lost income because they cannot cross to buy goods.
- Some traders have had to find alternative markets within the DRC, but profits are lower.
- Health experts say surveillance at border points is more effective than border closures for controlling Ebola.
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