Burundian Aubergine Smugglers 'Shot Dead In Rwanda'

Aubergines farmers in have been hit by the trade ban

Two Burundian aubergine smugglers were shot dead last night on the Rwandan side of the border, Burundi’s police spokesman, Pierre Nkurikiye, has said.

BBC Africa Live report continues:

He tweeted that the incident happened at around 03:40 local time near the border post of Ruhwa, and named the men as Fidele Niyonkuru and Jeremie Nyabenda.

In July, Burundi banned public transport and all trade in food with Rwanda on security grounds.

Aubergine and tomato farmers in the north-western Cibitoke province have been severely affected by the decision as they sold a lot of their produce in Rwanda. 

Relations between Burundi and Rwanda have deteriorated over the last year, with Bujumbura accusing Kigali of hosting the May 2015 coup plotters and offering material and military training to Burundians living in refugee camps in Rwanda.

The Health Benefits Of… Aubergines

Along with tomatoes, potatoes and bell peppers, the aubergine (solanum melongena) belongs to the nightshade plant family (Solanaceae). In fact, aubergines grow in a manner much like tomatoes, hanging from the vines of a plant that grows several feet in height. They have a deep purple, glossy skin encasing cream coloured, sponge-like flesh dotted with small, edible seeds. In addition to the classic purple variety, aubergines are available in other colours including lavender, jade green, orange and yellow and in a range of shapes and sizes. The most popular variety of aubergine looks like a large, pear-shaped egg, hence the American name ‘eggplant.’

The modern aubergine owes its origin to the wild version that is native to South East Asia. Prior to the middle ages it was introduced in Africa before spreading throughout Europe and the Middle East. For centuries aubergines were enjoyed more as a decorative garden plant than as a food due to its bitter taste.

Aubergines are an excellent source of dietary fibre. They are also a good source of vitamins B1 and B6 and potassium. In addition it is high in the minerals copper, magnesium and manganese.