Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Burundi
On December 2, 2025, took place at Royal Palace Hotel in Bujumbura, the launch of the USSD application dedicated to the COMESA Yellow Card, a major event for cross-border transport and trade in the region. Mr. Fabrice Bangemu, Director of Human Resources at SOCABU, representing the Chief Executive Officer, welcomed colleagues and distinguished guests. He emphasized that this innovative application is a key step towards transforming projects related to the Yellow Card scheme, an essential tool that facilitates transport and transit in Eastern and Southern Africa.
He noted that the introduction of the digital application marks a decisive step forward in operational efficiency, enabling simplified documentation management and reduced transit times. Easier access to information for carriers and authorities will also strengthen collaboration between member states, making the transport process more transparent and accessible. He encouraged the audience to embrace these changes and work together to ensure the success of the application, thereby offering new opportunities to citizens.
Mr. Citegetse, commander of the traffic police and road safety unit in Burundi, emphasized the importance of this event in facilitating cross-border trade. He stated that the Yellow Card plays a crucial role in providing uniform insurance coverage, helping to streamline travel and reduce risks for commercial operators. With more than 308,000 cards issued and $17 million in premiums in 2022-2023, this launch demonstrates a strong commitment to regional integration. Thanks to the USSD application, border agents will have access to real-time information, minimizing fraud and waiting times.
Mr. Severin Mbarubukeye, Permanent Secretary for East African Community Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and Development Cooperation, also spoke to mark the official launch. In his speech, he first thanked God for allowing this ceremony to take place, and emphasized the importance of harmonious and secure cross-border trade in an era of increasing economic interconnection. He affirmed that the COMESA Yellow Card is a cornerstone for facilitating smooth and secure travel, offering uniform coverage across multiple jurisdictions.
According to him, this application represents a significant technological advance in improving the efficiency of trade and cross-border movements. He encouraged all participants to recognize COMESA’s central role in economic integration, emphasizing that this launch demonstrates efforts to create a unified and prosperous economic community.
Finally, Mr. Matyavaviri, Director General of the COMESA Council of Bureaus Secretariat, concluded by thanking the dignitaries present. He emphasized the importance of this project in strengthening the financial system and facilitating access to banking services for all. He stressed that this innovation represents a step towards greater transparency and efficiency in the management of financial transactions, contributing to Burundi’s economic progress. He encouraged everyone to support this initiative and emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration between all stakeholders so that every citizen benefits from adequate coverage. This event opens up a new future for the region, based on integration and cooperation, as COMESA continues to build a better future for its members.
