Tension and chaos erupted in Kisoro Municipality on June 1, 2026 after municipal authorities moved to evict a group of vendors who had relocated to a private piece of land in Central Division following their removal from Gatimba Market.
The operation was overseen by Kisoro District Deputy Resident District Commissioner Dan Ndikumwami, alongside municipal authorities, who insisted that all traders must conduct business from officially gazetted market spaces.
The affected vendors had reportedly moved to land belonging to businessman Ramadhan Ndikuyeze after being relocated from Gatimba Market to Old Market, New Market, and Rusiza Market.
However, some traders argued that the designated markets did not have sufficient space to accommodate all those displaced by the relocation.
Speaking to the media, Ndikuyeze explained that he had voluntarily offered his land as a temporary solution to support the vendors while authorities worked to identify a permanent location.
He denied allegations that he had mobilized or encouraged traders to occupy the land unlawfully.
Deputy RDC Ndikumwami described the arrangement as illegal, emphasizing that traders are required to operate only in authorized and gazetted market areas.
He noted that the municipality had already designated Old Market, New Market, and Rusiza Market for the affected vendors and urged traders to comply with the directive.
Following the eviction, municipal officials and security personnel escorted traders to the three approved markets to ensure they were allocated space and resumed business operations.
Meanwhile, Kisoro Resident District Commissioner Hajji Baduru Ssebyara cautioned politicians against spreading what he described as misleading information regarding Gatimba Market.
Speaking during a security meeting held at the RDC’s office, Ssebyara warned leaders against telling vendors that the market had been sold to a private investor.
The meeting brought together district and municipal leaders, security officials, and police officers to discuss the ongoing dispute surrounding Gatimba Market and explore a lasting solution.
According to Ssebyara, the municipality plans to redevelop the market using government-supported urban development funds aimed at improving infrastructure and trade facilities.
On behalf of the Municipal Town Clerk, Central Division Town Clerk Gloria Busingye said the relocation was also intended to promote public health and strengthen preparedness measures against Ebola and other communicable diseases.
Kisoro Municipal Mayor John Mbonigaba defended the relocation exercise, saying the move was necessary to improve order and organization within the municipality’s markets.
By Monday June 1st 2026 afternoon, Gatimba Market had been largely deserted following the enforcement operation.
However, Old Market experienced significant congestion as traders relocated from Gatimba Market occupied available trading spaces.
Authorities say discussions are ongoing to ensure all affected vendors are accommodated while maintaining order and compliance with municipal regulations.
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