Modern livestock market funded under the PRISM project is reshaping how small livestock is traded in Ngororero District bringing order, hygiene, and new hope to rural families.
Residents of Ngororero District in Rwanda’s Western Province are celebrating the launch of a modern livestock market in Kabaya Sector a key milestone in rural economic development and community welfare.
This new market, dedicated to small livestock such as pigs, goats, sheep, rabbits, and poultry, was established through the PRISM project (Partnership for Resilient and Inclusive Small Livestock Markets), funded by the Government of Rwanda in collaboration with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
Constructed at a cost of 70 million Rwandan francs, the Kabaya market is part of a larger national initiative that has already invested more than 1.2 billion Rwandan francs to modernize livestock markets across the country.
A Timely solution to local needs
Previously, small livestock trading in Ngororero took place in informal and often unhygienic settings, resulting in tax evasion, poor animal health, and public disorder. The new market provides a clean, legal, and well-organized space, equipped with essential amenities such as drinking water, toilets, and proper animal holding areas.
“This market has changed everything,” said Vianney Gatarayiha, a local beneficiary. “Now we sell in a legal and sanitary space, and buyers come in large numbers. We can pay taxes easily, and everything is transparent.”
Mutuyimana Monique, another vendor, emphasized the market’s convenience: “It’s well organized and has all the sanitary facilities we need for ourselves and our animals. It really supports our business.”
Impact beyond commerce
According to Benjamine Mukunduhirwe, Vice Mayor in charge of Social Affairs in Ngororero District, the project is delivering benefits far beyond just trade.
“Before, small livestock was sold in the streets, causing chaos and health risks. Now, with the centralized market, there’s no more disorder, and tax evasion has greatly reduced,” she noted.
The PRISM project is also playing a crucial role in addressing broader socio-economic challenges. In five of the district’s most vulnerable sectors, malnutrition has decreased significantly from 50.5% to 21.7% thanks to interventions such as nutrition training, kitchen gardens, and increased household income from livestock sales.
Comprehensive Support for farmers
PRISM’s contributions extend well beyond market infrastructure. As part of its holistic approach to livestock development, the project has:
- Distributed pigs to 400 families,
- Supplied over 17,000 chickens,
- Constructed animal shelters,
- Opened a veterinary pharmacy in Kabaya,
- Established veterinary clinics in Ngororero Sector for reliable animal healthcare.
“These are not just donations,” emphasized Vice Mayor Mukunduhirwe. They are part of a larger strategy to fight poverty, improve sanitation, and restore dignity. We used to see families living under the same roof as their animals. Now, we see clean homes, healthy children, and hopeful communities.”
A Model for sustainable development
Known for its strong livestock farming culture, Ngororero District was strategically selected to host this modern market as part of PRISM’s mission to promote sustainable rural development. The market operates twice a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays and has quickly become a central hub for livestock trade in the region.
“We thank our government and partners like PRISM for their continued support,” said Mukunduhirwe. “This project is proof that smart, targeted investments can truly change lives.”
Vision for the future
Joseph Nshokeyinka, PRISM Project Manager, highlighted the broader goal of the project:
“At its core, the PRISM project aims to build resilient, inclusive, and profitable small livestock markets that serve as engines of economic growth and poverty reduction in rural areas. Through targeted support in production, training, policy, and access to quality breeds, the project is helping farmers transform livestock into reliable sources of income and nutrition.”
He added, “As the project progresses, it is becoming a model for integrated livestock development in the region one that uplifts lives, empowers communities, and lays a stronger foundation for food security and economic stability.”
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