Members of the business community have raised accusations against Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) and border security officers, claiming their complicity in shielding smugglers along the Uganda-Rwanda border, specifically at Katuna in Kabale district.
Expressing deep dissatisfaction, the business community alleges an ongoing issue of smuggling facilitated by collusion between URA and security officers. It is claimed that these officers, in exchange for bribes, permit the unhindered movement of smuggled goods into Uganda from Rwanda. The community contends that authorities display a lack of action against smugglers entering Uganda, in stark contrast to their apparent vigilance when goods move in the opposite direction.
Justus Tindimurekura, a tobacco trader, asserts having witnessed individuals smuggling cosmetics and beer from Rwanda into Uganda while URA and security officers stand idly by, allegedly receiving bribes from the smugglers.
Bright Arineitwe and Samuel Sserwanga Bunkeddeko, concerned businessmen and Chairperson of Clearing Agents at Katuna, Kyanika, and Mirama Hills borders, are calling for higher authorities to intervene and address the reported malpractices.
Ronald Bakak, the Kabale Deputy Resident District Commissioner, acknowledges the allegations and assures ongoing investigations. He emphasizes that URA and security officers implicated in smuggling activities risk arrest and prosecution for causing financial loss to the government.
Gordon Mutungi, Officer in Charge of the URA customs office at Katuna border post, vehemently denies the accusations. He highlights successful seizures, mentioning goods valued at approximately $15,000 (UGX 50 million) confiscated from smugglers between July and December 2023. The seized items include mobile phones, cosmetics, beers, and cattle being smuggled from Rwanda to Uganda.
Edrine Mutebi, the acting assistant commissioner in charge of public and corporate affairs at URA, dismisses the allegations, pointing to improved revenue collection since the reopening of the Katuna border. Mutebi states that URA collected UGX 3.8 billion, equivalent to 42%, in the 2022/2023 fiscal year.
The Katuna border, closed by Rwandan President Paul Kagame on February 27, 2019, citing various accusations against Ugandan authorities, was reopened in January 2022. High-profile cross-border meetings in December 2023 between Ugandan and Rwandan security officials aimed to enhance trade, facilitate free movement, control diseases, and combat smuggling.
