GOMA — The border between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda reopened late Thursday. M23 rebels announced the reopening in a press release Thursday, ending a closure that began in May due to an ongoing Ebola outbreak.

The border closure had been in effect for months. The World Health Organization had previously advised against closing borders during Ebola outbreaks, stating that such actions hamper response efforts. The current outbreak has led to more than 1,400 confirmed cases and over 400 deaths.

Didier Mbombo, a goods courier, expressed relief at the development. "We are truly happy to see the border reopened today because our lives depend on it. While the border was closed, we were unable to provide for our families," Mbombo said. Joviale Bigombire, a trader, noted the impact. "I am delighted by the reopening of the border crossing because it had already been a month and a half since we could go to Rwanda," said Bigombire.

The city of Goma has experienced disruptions since M23 rebels seized it early last year. Goma's airport has remained closed since the M23 takeover. Individuals seeking international travel access from Goma transited through Kigali, Rwanda. "Since our airport in Goma is closed, people transited through Kigali to travel around the world," said Ponchelin Monyo, an education inspector.

The Bundibugyo virus has no vaccine and no approved treatment. Health authorities noted the virus spread undetected for weeks as they tested for the Zaire virus.