Rwanda steps up safety precautions for cross border truck drivers

In response to a slight increase in COVID-19 cases attributed to cross-border truck drivers, Rwanda has implemented a cross-border cargo transit logistics platform at key border points. The newly established Kianzi logistics platform located at the border between Tanzania and Rwanda aims to curb the spread of the virus while facilitating trade. This move comes as part of efforts to prevent the transmission of the virus through cross-border movements of goods and services. The logistics platform is a hive of activity, with trucks being sprayed and disinfected by medical officers from the Ronda Bear Medical Center. The process involves rigorous checks and decontamination to minimize the risk of transmission, ensuring the safety of both drivers and recipients of cargo. Dr. Jose Niamusori, responsible for epidemic surveillance and response, explains the various measures taken to break the chain of transmission, including testing truck drivers, decontaminating vehicles, and segregating goods for swift transfer to local drivers. Neighboring Uganda has also implemented new restrictive measures, such as relay tracking, where trucks from other countries have their vehicles disinfected at the border and goods are handed over to Ugandan drivers. This approach, similar to Rwanda's, aims to mitigate the risk posed by cross-border movements while ensuring the continuity of trade. While the primary objective of the logistics platform is to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Rosine Uamariya, the Ronda Revenue Authority Commissioner for Custom Services, highlights that the facility also serves to streamline trade operations. By offering essential services like offloading, storage, and accommodation for drivers, the platform enhances efficiency and convenience for traders, especially truck drivers who no longer need to travel long distances to transport goods. Despite the positive intentions behind the measures, Tanzanian truck drivers have expressed concerns about handing over trucks carrying sensitive goods like fuel to unknown drivers. They advocate for escorted deliveries to mitigate risks and ensure accountability in case of any incidents during transit. Traders in the region are also pushing for harmonization of restrictive measures across East Africa to enhance clarity and consistency in trade operations. Fred Fekker, Chairman of the Federation for East Africa Association, underscores the importance of aligning guidelines and measures to facilitate seamless cross-border trade. The call for standardized protocols and clear engagements between governments and stakeholders aims to create a conducive environment for businesses to operate efficiently and safely amid the pandemic. As Rwanda continues its efforts to contain the virus, the Ministry of Health reports 261 confirmed COVID-19 cases, with 129 recoveries and no deaths. The country's proactive approach to managing cross-border movements reflects a commitment to safeguard public health while supporting economic activities. With collaborative initiatives and stringent measures in place, Rwanda is poised to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic and ensure the safety of its citizens and trade partners.