Uganda-Rwanda tension: Rugunda appeals for calm

Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda

Kabale- Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda has appealed for calm as tensions continue to mount at closed the Uganda–Rwanda border.

Tensions at the Katuna-Gatuna border post flared on Wednesday when all cargo vehicles from Uganda were denied entry into Rwanda.

“Uganda and Rwanda are brotherly countries, therefore, people should not get worried because the issues shall be handled and concluded. The Uganda Foreign Affairs Ministry is working on the matter,” Dr Rugunda said.

The premier asked Ugandans at the border points and neighbouring districts to remain calm, promising that the impasse will be amicably resolved very soon.

Dr Rugunda made the remarks after officiating at the handover of the MTN Uganda refurbished and furnished Kamukira Health Centre IV in Kabale Municipality.

The health centre also received a donation of a number of a number of items that included 20 beds, 20 mattresses, 20 blankets and 20 mosquito nets from the same telecom company.

Dr Rugunda also rallied Ugandans against non-communicable diseases, which remain a big challenge to the health sector.
He said while the diseases are on the increase, they are easy to manage and treat but noted that the poor health-seeking behaviour of Ugandans remains a big problem.

“Uganda has taken a stride in eradicating the other killer diseases but as we celebrated this milestone, there have emerged non-communicable diseases that are now a threat to Ugandans..,”he said.

He appealed to Ugandans to at least go for medical checkup once every year.
Mr Gordian Kyomukama, the MTN Uganda acting Chief Executive Officer, said they spent Shs300 million to refurbish and donate to the facility as part of their mission to improve livelihoods of Ugandans.

“Through MTN foundation, MTN Uganda continues to show its commitment towards improving the livelihoods of Ugandans. We identified this health centre because it had an urgent need and services,” Mr Kyomukama said.

MTN Uganda chairman Charles Mbiire said the activity is part of MTN at 20 celebrations and that they remain committed to ensure they connect communities to essential health and education services, among others.