Rwanda National Police (RNP) in the Northern Province says there has been a significant decline in Kanyanga trafficking and abuse, referring to illicit alcohol smuggled from Uganda.

Police figures from the Northern region indicate a remarkable decrease of up to 80% in consumption and trafficking, attributed to various measures implemented at the Rwanda-Uganda border and effective community mobilization efforts that have positively influenced public perceptions.

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Comparing the current statistics to those of 2023, the trend of declining cases persists. Notably, Burera and Gicumbi districts exhibit the highest rates of border-related crimes within the Northern Province. In 2023, these districts reported 1387 border cases, whereas in 2024, this number decreased to 108 within the first two months.

Presently, there are 75 cases of illegal border crossing and 870 cases of drug dealing and smuggling, with 604 incidents reported in Burera district alone.

Kanyanga abuse has been highlighted by President Paul Kagame as a hindrance to the development of districts bordering Uganda, citing its detrimental effects on the populace and their productivity.

Jean Bosco Mwiseneza, the Police Spokesperson for Northern Province, emphasized the concerted efforts in combating border-related crimes, particularly through community mobilization and the deployment of vigilant border guards.

"Approximately, Kanyanga trafficking and abuse has decreased by 80%. However, we continue to engage in community mobilization to encourage people to refrain from engaging in such activities," Mwiseneza said.

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Acting Mayor Parfaite Uwera of Gicumbi district outlined several strategies being employed to tackle border-related crimes, including community mobilization, enhanced border security, and initiatives aimed at creating employment opportunities for residents living in border areas.

However, Uwera highlighted budgetary constraints as a challenge in sustaining job creation and skill development programs for former smugglers, which is essential to achieving zero border cases.

Emmanuel Rwanzekumva, a 25-year-old resident of Burera district, attested to the positive changes, noting that "drugs are no longer trafficked as before because local authorities are now more vigilant."