Huye District is planning to build two additional craft centres in Mukura and Mbazi to ease pressure on the existing Sovu facility, which artisans say can no longer accommodate the growing number of people seeking workspace.
The planned centres are expected to provide more suitable working spaces for artisans engaged in trades such as carpentry, tailoring, welding and other small-scale manufacturing activities.
Artisans at Sovu say the shortage of space has forced some of their colleagues to operate from homes or other unsuitable locations, limiting their ability to work efficiently, attract customers and expand their businesses.
One artisan said the problem had persisted for years and urged authorities to speed up the expansion plans.
“The craft centre exists, but there are too many people who need space to work. Some are working from home because they have nowhere else to go. We want the centre expanded or additional ones built so that everyone can have a suitable place to work,” the artisan said.
Huye District Mayor Ange Sebutege acknowledged the challenge, saying the district was aware that the existing facility could not meet the needs of all artisans.
Speaking to Rwanda Broadcasting Agency, Sebutege said the district had already taken steps to improve the operation of the Sovu centre.
“Residents told us that the craft centre was built but was not benefiting many people. That is why we put more effort into ensuring that the existing centre could operate, and we are happy that it is now functioning well,” he said.
He said the district’s revised master plan has identified Mukura and Mbazi as locations for the two new facilities.
“In the revised master plan, two areas have been designated — Mukura and Mbazi — where we will build additional craft centres to complement the Sovu craft centre,” Sebutege said.
The expansion is expected to reduce the number of artisans working from homes and informal spaces while providing safer and more organised workplaces.
Artisans say the additional facilities could also improve hygiene and workplace safety, increase access to customers and contribute to the growth of the local crafts and small-business sector.
However, they are calling for the plans to be implemented quickly, arguing that continued delays could prolong the workspace shortage and limit opportunities for people seeking to make a living through skilled trades.
