The move follows vendors’ concerns expressing frustration over running businesses in unfavourable conditions where some sections of the market are not roofed. This has seen vendors halting businesses whenever it rains to find shelter.

Among others, vendors claimed that the roofed section is overcrowded. Rain water pipes are also said to be dilapidated that some merchandises are damaged when it rains.

Officials in Gicumbi District say that vendors’ concerns were understood that a meeting was summoned with representatives of the private sector to find a solution.

It was resolved to relocate traders to new buildings completed in Byumba town that do not house any business. Traders to be relocated are those operating in uncomfortable spaces.

Bwanakeye, one of traders in Byumba market has asked leaders to consider their interests during the relocation process lest their businesses suffer losses.

Philbert Nyirimanzi, the president of Gicumbi Stars, a cooperative bringing together differently abled persons selling clothes in the market said that they have no means to pay rental fees for a large building.

As he said, they have been struggling to pay Rwf45,000 per month in the old market where their business would be affected once the price increases further.

The Mayor of Gicumbi District, Emmanuel Nzabonimpa has said that the decision reached after consultations with representatives from the private sector, seeks to help traders run businesses in comfortable and ample spaces.

It is said that traders without adequate means might be allowed to operate together in one space to reduce expenses.

Byumba market is located in Gicumbi town.