The value of goods destroyed in the fire at GOICO Plaza, which housed Musanze Market, is estimated at more than Rwf30 billion, according to preliminary figures released by Northern Province Governor Mugabowagahunde Maurice.
Speaking to Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA), the governor said the building itself was valued at Rwf17 billion.
The figures are preliminary as authorities continue assessing the damage caused by the fire, which broke out at around 3 p.m. on Saturday, October 10, and spread through the five-storey commercial complex. The cause has not been confirmed.
GOICO Plaza was a major trading centre in Musanze, with more than 2,000 traders and about 12,000 daily visitors, according to the Northern Province Private Sector Federation.
The fire destroyed merchandise and disrupted businesses across the market.
The Ministry of Local Government said two people sustained minor injuries and 15 others experienced psychological shock.
The government has pledged to support the market’s rehabilitation and help traders resume their businesses.
