The crossing English Version - International Alert

34 International Alert3.2 RecommendationsIn the light of this analysis of the predicament of small-scale cross-border traders in agriculturalgoods, International Alert and APIBA propose that particular attention be paid to the followingactions.To Congolese and Rwandan national and provincial authorities• The state should introduce strategies to help small-scale traders increase their capital byfacilitating access to credit through micro-finance institutions; by providing easier access tomarkets; and (for the DRC) by stabilising the currency.• The creation of a cross-border market in Goma or between Goma and Gisenyi, where Rwandanand Congolese small-scale traders can sell goods free of tax in a secure environment, whilemeeting both states’ immigration requirements.• Introduce regular cross-border fairs where Congolese and Rwandan traders can display andsell their goods;• Reduce taxes in both countries by differentiating small-scale traders from medium andlarge-scale ones in assessment terms. This can be achieved by implementing the RECOS thatRwanda and DRC, as members of COMESA, have pledged – but neglected – to implement.• Establish permanent dialogue between the local authorities of the two countries with a viewto reinforcing the partnership between the neighbouring cities, establishing strategies andagreements aimed at facilitating small-scale traders’ cross-border transactions.• Regularise the Gabiro Cemetery border post so that traders can cross without harassment.• In the long term, establish a one-stop border post at the Goma-Gisenyi border, allowing acombined inspection of goods by Congolese and Rwandan border services, thereby minimisingtraders’ crossing times. 55• Conduct research on measures to standardise tariffs for goods not covered by the RECOS,and streamline international crossings by:- Retraining customs and immigration officials- Computerising the service to facilitate the collection of taxes, data archiving and analysis- Regular payment of salaries to government employees.• The Mayor of Goma should regulate the ‘pirate’ street markets set up in the evening bybuilding and maintaining formal markets where Rwandan and Congolese women can selltheir merchandise.• Implement a zero-tolerance policy towards the harassment of traders by government officials,Maibobo, Rasta and Kajoriti (war veterans).• Legalise the practice of small-scale trade by foreigners in North Kivu in order to: a) betterprotect foreign traders working in DRC; and b) improve state and provincial regulation of thetrade through taxation and management.• Establish a neutral and independent ombudsman service responsible for traders’ complaints,with the power and resources required to implement its mission.To Congolese and Rwandan traders• Organise in associations, according to specialisation, and work to find solutions to theirproblems;• Revive partnerships between small-scale traders’ associations in Gisenyi and Goma.55 As has been done at the Rwanda-Uganda border at Katuna since 2010.