This archive report was first published on 14 September 2019.
On September 14, 2019, Uganda released 32 Rwandans, a move seen as a sign of goodwill ahead of crucial high-level talks with Rwanda officials this week.
The release comes as both countries begin implementing a Memorandum of Understanding signed by their heads of state in Angola last month.
Uganda's release of the 32 Rwandans is the second mass deportation in three months, following the deportation of 20 other Rwandans in June.
Some of the deported individuals have filed lawsuits against Uganda at the East African Court of Justice.
Under the MoU, both countries agreed to 'resume as soon as possible the cross-border activities including the movement of persons and goods, for the development and improvement of the lives of their population.'
Ugandan goods are heavily restricted from entering Rwanda, at Gatuna, Kagitumba, and Cyanika borders.
During their meeting in Luanda, Presidents Kagame and Museveni reiterated that the MoU should be implemented fully 'without picking and choosing,' noting that disputes in its interpretation shall be settled through dialogue between the parties or through the help of facilitation.
