UNDP, Riamiriam to Revamp Nakiloro Market in Rupa Subcounty
Nakiloro, a small village centre in Rupa subcounty, Moroto District, Uganda, has long been a hub for cross-border trade between Uganda and Kenya. Every Friday, the Nakiloro Cattle/Livestock Market comes alive with activity, attracting traders and customers from both sides of the border.
For years, the market has played a vital role in the local economy, providing a platform for farmers and pastoralists to sell their livestock, produce, and other goods. However, poor management and lack of infrastructure had taken its toll. Stalls were vandalized, valuable items stolen, and traders struggled to operate in a chaotic environment.
But change is on the horizon.
Riamiriam Civil Society Network-Karamoja, with funding from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), under the Building Resilience in Conflict Affected Communities in Karamoja (BRICK) has embarked on an ambitious project to renovate the Nakiloro Market.
The renovation project aims to, construct modern stalls and shelters, improve sanitation and hygiene facilities, enhance security measures and establish efficient market management systems
For traders like Juma Lokeris, a cattle farmer from Moroto, the renovation has come soon enough. “The market has been in a terrible state. We’ve lost many valuable items to theft and vandalism. But with the renovation, we’re hopeful that business will improve.”
Boosting Cross-Border Trade
The Nakiloro Market is more than just a local trading hub; it’s a critical link between Uganda and Kenya. Turkana County, just across the border, relies heavily on the market for essential goods.
“Trade between our two countries is crucial for economic growth,” says Emily Lomaruk, a trader from Turkana. “With a well-organized market, we’ll be able to access better quality goods and services.”
The renovation project goes beyond physical infrastructure. Riamiriam Civil Society Network-Karamoja will also provide training on market management, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy to the market management Committee as well as market vendors.
“This project will empower our communities to take charge of their economic destiny,” says Richard Omoding, Executive Director of Riamiriam Civil Society Network-Karamoja. “We’re grateful for UNDP’s support in making this vision a reality.”
As the renovation progresses, excitement builds among traders and residents. Nakiloro Market is poised to become a model for cross-border trade, fostering economic growth and cooperation between Uganda and Kenya.
When completed, the renovated market will Increase trade volumes and revenue, Improve livelihoods for traders and farmers, enhance regional cooperation and integration and create jobs and economic opportunities.
The story of Nakiloro Market serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and community-driven development.
Follow Riamiriam Civil Society Network-Karamoja for updates on the renovation project.
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