Rwanda to fine street hawkers, buyers in tidiness bid

Rwanda has tightened measures against street hawkers in the capital Kigali, after the vendors had continued to run their businesses in defiance of the ban.

Last year, the country issued a directive that permanently banned street vending and hawking within the Kigali city.

The city authority has blamed street hawking and buying for depriving pedestrians of their space, causing traffic jams and tax evasion.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Patricia Muhongerwa, the deputy mayor in charge of social affairs, said that those caught selling or buying on the streets will be fined and have their merchandise confiscated.

"We have sensitized hawkers about leaving street vending and find a permanent facility within in the business district area, but we are shocked to learn that they are still hawking on several streets within the city center," she said.

Intended to curb untidiness and pollution, the penalty also targets offences like throwing dead animals on the street.

The order will affect many traders who have made careers out of selling goods on the streets and sidewalks, such as cigarettes, clothes and foodstuff.

Kigali city authorities estimate the number of street hawkers at around 6,000, who are involved in running battles with local security operatives.

Last year, the government built 12 markets on outskirts of the city center for hawkers and vendors. In addition, selling points have also been set up with well-furnished structures in sub-urban areas in a bid to end street hawking.

Kigal, has been transformed into a vibrant and a model city in Africa with its clean streets, serene environment coupled with breathtaking infrastructural developments.

Kigali has been on numerous occasions lauded as Africa's cleanest city by the global reports thanks to the country's ban on plastic bags in 2008 and monthly community work locally known as 'Umuganda'.

The city targets to attain the status of the 'centre of urban excellence' in Africa by 2040 and has seen the development of numerous plush hotels and commercial plazas. Endit