Construction of Multi-Million Dollar Modern Kimironko Market Kicks Off in Gasabo

KIGALI – A major transformation of the Kimironko commercial hub began on December 3, 2025, with the official launch of the construction of a state-of-the-art market in Gasabo District. This development is the first phase of the massive ‘Kimironko Commercial Complex’ project, designed to upgrade the infrastructure in one of Kigali's busiest neighborhoods.

The project is being spearheaded by the Gasabo Investment Company (GIC), a collective of Rwandan investors established in 2013. The company acquired the land—comprising the current market, bus park, and the former Kimironko Health Center—from Gasabo District in 2016 for Rwf 3.15 billion.

Phase 1: The Modern Market

The first phase involves the construction of a modern market facility located at the site of the former health center. With a budget of $22 million, the construction is scheduled to be completed within one year and four months.

The new market building will span six floors, designed to maximize space and utility:

• Basement Levels (2 floors): Reserved for parking, with a capacity for 400 vehicles.

• Ground Floor: Designated for the relocation of traders from the current open-air market.

• First Floor: Dedicated to support services, including banks, insurance companies, and telecommunication centers.

• Upper Levels (2 floors): Reserved for general merchandise and specific product categories.

According to GIC, there are over 250 commercial spaces available for purchase. Prices start at Rwf 40 million per unit, with a flexible payment plan allowing for up to 15 installments. Importantly, current traders in the old Kimironko market will be prioritized for relocation, with assurances that prices will remain reasonable.

A Vision for Modernity

Shema Fabrice, the CEO of Gasabo Investment Company, emphasized that the project aims to align Kimironko’s infrastructure with the rapid development of the surrounding areas.

"Our project is complemented by what we call the 'sports infrastructure city.' We do not want someone leaving Zaria Court or Amahoro Stadium to arrive in Kimironko and feel like they have stepped into a different country. We must maintain a continuity of beauty," Shema stated.

Phase 2: The Bus Terminal and Residential Complex

Following the completion of the market, the second phase will focus on the land currently occupied by the old market and the bus park. This phase, expected to begin in 2028, involves a massive investment projected to exceed $60 million, covering relocation and construction costs.

Plans for this phase include:

• A Modern Bus Terminal (Gare): Described as an architectural landmark with aesthetics to match the city’s modernization.

• Residential Units: Apartments will be built to introduce mixed-use living into the commercial zone.

• Entertainment & Logistics: The complex will feature entertainment hubs, warehouses, and a showroom for industries based in the Masoro Free Zone.

Upon completion of all phases, the entire complex is expected to offer parking for 1,800 vehicles.

The construction is being executed by Abosskal Oferka JV Rwanda. The firm’s CEO, Selahattin Yetim, expressed pride in participating in a project that will significantly improve the livelihoods of local residents and the city’s landscape.