War economy: How M23’s rise fuels trade between Rwanda, Uganda, eastern Congo

Ugandan traders display their merchandise for sale at Mpondwe border post between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo on June 14, 2019.

Photo credit: Reuters

Despite escalating conflict in eastern DRC, traders in Rwanda and Uganda are reaping windfalls as rebel-controlled territories increasingly depend on them for essential supplies.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), especially the troubled east, has witnessed security tensions since the beginning of the year, yet amid the uncertainty that came with the change in administration and the entry of the rebel group M23, business continues.