Kisoro Municipality Offers Tax Relief to Relocated Food Vendors

Kisoro Municipality has announced a significant tax reprieve for food vendors who have been relocated from the temporary Gatimba Market to the designated Kisoro Old Market. In a move aimed at easing the transition and supporting local businesses, municipal authorities have decided to exempt these traders from paying market dues until further notice.

The waiver specifically applies to vendors dealing in agricultural produce such as matooke, Irish potatoes, yams, and sweet potatoes. Gloria Busingye, the Town Clerk for Kisoro Central Division, clarified that the Old Market is a gazetted public space intended for farmers and produce vendors.

“We exempted them to help their businesses recover after the relocation,” Busingye stated. She further explained that while food vendors are granted this relief, traders operating permanent stalls with goods like textiles, groceries, and shoes will continue to be subject to standard tax obligations.

Gatimba Market was originally established as a temporary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic to alleviate congestion. Following the pandemic, the municipality has proceeded with its closure as part of a broader urban physical development plan. The vendors have been reassigned to several locations, including Kisoro Old Market, Rusiza Market, and New Park Market.

Busingye also addressed public speculation regarding the Gatimba site, asserting that it is designated for development into a green space with trees for shade and environmental improvement, refuting claims of land sale. The municipality plans to demolish remaining structures at the site, with a clear schedule to be communicated to those affected. This comprehensive urban renewal initiative seeks to enhance the town’s cleanliness, order, and adherence to planning regulations, contributing to a more organized and sustainable market environment.