Ngororero: Kabaya small livestock market reshapes trade practices

Small livestock farmers and traders operating at the Kabaya market in Ngororero District say they now work in a more spacious and secure environment, protecting them from losses and other challenges they used to face before the market was constructed.

The market was built in 2022 through a partnership between the PRISM (Partnership for Resilient and Inclusive Small Livestock Markets Programme) project and Ngororero District, at a cost of Rwf 70 million.

“This market ensures the safety of our animals because it is fully fenced and they even built us a shelter to protect us from the rain. I thank the Government of Rwanda for thinking of constructing this market for us.”, Mr. Philippe Bahengereje, one of the nearby residents.

Ms. Marie Uwimana explained that previously the market was held in a distant and cramped area, which made it uncomfortable for both traders and livestock.

“Now a client can now come to the market and know exactly where to find the type of animal they are looking for; whether it’s a sheep, goat, or chicken, there is a designated area for each.”

Mr. Emmanuel Ndiramiye added that animals such as rabbits and chickens would become ill when exposed to the rain, often leading to financial losses. However, this issue has been addressed as their selling area is now covered.

Other residents noted that previously, they would lose livestock due to the lack of fencing and poor security. In addition, the market has addressed issues related to overpricing and limited access making livestock trading easier and more secure.

The Vice Mayor for Social Affairs in Ngororero District, Benjamine Mukunduhirwe, stated that the market contributes to boosting the economy both for individuals and the district as a whole.

“When residents are engaged in livestock farming and have a reliable place to sell their animals, their income increases and it also improves the district’s tax revenue. This market has enabled residents to trade in a sheltered area, protecting them and their livestock from harm. It has also brought the market closer to residents who previously had to travel long distances, allowing them more time for other activities once they return from the market,” she said.

The PRISM project operates in the five most vulnerable sectors. Over 400 households have already received modern pig breeds, and 17,000 chickens have been distributed to residents. These animals have proven productive, allowing beneficiaries to pass on the animals to others. This approach is expected to reach a wider population, as highlighted by Mukunduhirwe, who emphasised its contribution to the fight against malnutrition.

“In 2020, Ngororero District had a stunting rate of 50.5%. We prioritised helping residents access a balanced diet, and PRISM supported us in that effort. Families who received chickens now have access to eggs, allowing children to have a more nutritious diet. This has helped us combat malnutrition. The latest figures show that stunting has dropped to 21.7%. This demonstrates our progress in reducing malnutrition and stunting, with PRISM playing a significant role,” she said.

The Partnership for Resilient and Inclusive Small Livestock Markets Programme (PRISM), funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), is implemented by the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) through its SPIU.

It is jointly funded by the Government of Rwanda, IFAD, and Enabel, with Heifer International (as a co-financier) and VSF Belgium as key implementing partners. The PRISM Project runs for five years, having commenced in March 2021 and is expected to conclude in September 2026.