The Northern Corridor is East Africa’s principal trade artery, linking the Port of Mombasa in Kenya to landlocked countries including Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This corridor encompasses a series of strategically located border markets that play a crucial role in facilitating regional commerce, enhancing trade efficiency, and promoting economic integration.

These markets are crucial for facilitating trade, promoting economic integration, and supporting local livelihoods. Continued investment in infrastructure, policy reforms, and empowerment programs are being implemented by the Northern Corridor Member States to enhance the efficiency and inclusivity of cross-border trade.

the border markets along the Northern Corridor are vital components of East Africas trade infrastructure. Through strategic initiatives like the establishment of OSBPs and efforts to reduce non-tariff barriers, these markets have significantly improved trade efficiency and regional integration, fostering economic growth across the region.

Regional Integration and Economic Impact

The border markets along the Northern Corridor are not only trade facilitation points but also hubs for regional integration. They support the movement of goods and people, contributing to economic growth and development in the region. By improving infrastructure and streamlining border procedures, these markets enhance the competitiveness of East African economies on the global stage.

Development of border markets to empower Women and Youth in cross-border Trade

Women and youth constitute a significant portion of small-scale cross-border traders in the region. Programs aimed at developing border markets contribute to empowering these groups through capacity building, access to finance, and policy reforms to create a more inclusive trading environment.

Infrastructure and Trade Facilitation Initiatives

The implementation of One-Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) along the Northern Corridor has been instrumental in reducing transit costs and time. By consolidating border control procedures and services in a single location, OSBPs have minimized delays and improved the efficiency of cross-border trade. The removal of duplication in border proceedings contributes to facilitating smoother trade flows.

Additionally, Simplified Trade Regimes (STRs) have been introduced to support small-scale traders by reducing the complexity and cost of cross-border trade. These regimes are particularly beneficial for women and youth engaged in informal trading activities

Furthermore, initiatives aimed at reducing non-tariff barriers have been undertaken to enhance trade along the corridor. Efforts to crack down on corruption and delays have contributed to more efficient movement of goods across borders.

Key Border Markets Along the Northern Corridor present as follows:

1. Malaba (Kenya–Uganda)

Malaba stands as one of the busiest border crossings in East Africa, handling over 1,000 trucks daily into Kenya and approximately 934 into Uganda. The establishment of a One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) here has significantly streamlined customs and immigration procedures, reducing transit times and enhancing trade efficiency.

2. Busia (Kenya–Uganda)

Busia is another vital border market facilitating substantial cross-border trade. The OSBP at Busia has improved the movement of goods and people, contributing to increased trade volumes and economic activities in the region.

3. Gatuna/Katuna (Rwanda–Uganda)

Gatuna (Rwanda) and Katuna (Uganda) form a critical border crossing point, serving as a primary conduit for Rwandas imports and exports. The border operates 24 hours a day, facilitating continuous trade flow between the two countries.

4. Elegu/Nimule (Uganda–South Sudan)

The Elegu (Uganda) and Nimule (South Sudan) border markets are pivotal for trade between the two nations. The OSBP here has enhanced customs efficiency, promoting smoother trade operations and fostering economic ties.

5. Mirama Hills/Kagitumba (Uganda–Rwanda)

This border post connects Uganda and Rwanda, playing a significant role in facilitating trade and movement between the two countries. The OSBP has streamlined border procedures, contributing to reduced transit times and improved trade efficiency.

6. Goma (DRC) – Rubavu (Rwanda)

This border crossing is one of the busiest in the Great Lakes region, with a significant volume of small-scale trade, predominantly conducted by women. Efforts are underway to improve infrastructure and formalize trade activities to enhance efficiency and security.

7. Bukavu (DRC) – Rusizi (Rwanda)

Similar to Goma-Rubavu, these crossing experiences substantial informal trade. Initiatives focus on infrastructure development and policy reforms to support traders, especially women who constitute a large portion of the trading population.

8. Mutukula (Uganda–Tanzania)

The Mutukula border post has been upgraded to a One-Stop Border Post (OSBP), streamlining customs and immigration procedures. This has significantly reduced crossing times, facilitating smoother trade between the two countries.

9. Mpondwe (Uganda) – Kasindi (DRC)

Mpondwe is one of the busiest border crossings between Uganda and the DRC. The establishment of an OSBP and a Border Export Zone aims to enhance trade efficiency and support local traders.

10. Kagitumba (Rwanda) – Mirama Hills (Uganda)

This border post has been developed into an OSBP, improving the movement of goods and people between Rwanda and Uganda. The integration of customs and immigration services has streamlined cross-border trade.