Rubavu modern market opens after 14 years, ushering in a new era of trade and investment
After more than a decade of anticipation, resilience, and renewed commitment, the Rubavu nodern market has officially opened its doors,marking a transformative moment for traders, investors, and the wider Rubavu community.
The landmark facility was inaugurated on December 27, 2025, in Gisenyi Sector, bringing to life a project whose journey began back in 2011. Valued at 5.7 billion Rwandan Francs, the market stands today as a powerful symbol of perseverance and public,private collaboration.
Construction of the market faced prolonged setbacks, stalling for nearly nine years due to various challenges. A turning point came in 2021, when the project was entrusted to private investors under Rubavu Investment Company Ltd (RICO Ltd), working in partnership with Rubavu District. Their intervention revived the vision and carried the project through to completion.
A Modern Hub for Trade
The newly opened market is a four-level structure, with each floor offering 2,500 square meters of trading space, excluding the basement and rooftop. Designed to meet modern commercial standards, the facility provides 1,500 stalls, creating a vibrant hub that will serve both local residents and visitors to Rubavu,one of Rwanda’s key tourism destinations.
Over 95 percent of the stalls have already been allocated, reflecting the strong demand and enthusiasm from traders eager to operate in a secure, organized, and modern environment.
Aligning with Vision 2050
Speaking at the inauguration, Minister of Trade and Industry Prudence Sebahizi praised the completion of the market while urging stakeholders to think even bigger in line with Rwanda’s Vision 2050.
“This market was conceived 15 years ago,” he said. “I am confident that in the next three years, you will build others far larger,perhaps 15 times the scale. It was designed with a 2020 vision in mind, but today we are focused on 2050.”
The minister highlighted the momentum created under the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), which prioritizes private sector investment. He also pointed to the growing opportunities in Rubavu, noting that alongside tourism, the trade sector now requires at least three five-star hotels to match rising demand.
“This is one of the most warmly embraced initiatives by its beneficiaries that I have witnessed,” he added, encouraging investors to expand their ambitions beyond Rubavu.
Praise for Collective Effort
Jeanne Françoise Mubiligi, Chairperson of the Private Sector Federation (PSF), commended the investors and developers for their determination in bringing the long-delayed project to fruition, describing the market as a model for impactful private sector participation.
Rubavu District Mayor Prosper Mulindwa called the opening a historic milestone for the district.
“This is a momentous day for everyone here,” he said. “The market was long overdue, and its completion required collective effort. It addresses many challenges faced by traders and will significantly improve livelihoods.”
A Foundation for the Future
For Pierre Celestin Twagirayezu, Chairperson of RICO Ltd, the market represents both an achievement and a foundation for future development.
“This market provides 1,500 stalls and will serve both local residents and visitors to Rubavu,” he said. “This success would not have been possible without the government’s guidance and support.”
As traders begin operations and customers fill its corridors, the Rubavu Modern Market stands not just as a building,but as a testament to patience, partnership, and the promise of sustained economic growth. For Rubavu, it signals the beginning of a new chapter one defined by opportunity, modern trade, and ambitious development.
