“Before, I worried about the weather and my goods but now I focus on growing my business.”  Yvonne. 

When Yvonne started her small business selling foodstuffs and body care products, she worked in an open-air market. Every day came with challenges of unpredictable weather, constant movement of goods, and the stress of possible losses due to those challenges. Each morning and evening meant extra transport costs just to move her products back and forth, eating into her profits. 

Everything changed when she joined Akayange Market Hub nearly a year ago. At first, Yvonne expected more of the same routine packing up her goods daily and worrying about their safety. Instead, she discovered something different. A secure space where she could safely store her products, protected from theft, rain, and harsh sunlight. For the first time, she didn’t have to carry her business on her back every day. 

With electricity available at the hub, her working hours are no longer limited by daylight. She can serve customers comfortably and consistently, regardless of the weather. This stability has transformed her business no more losses due to damaged goods, and no more unnecessary transport expenses. What she once spent on daily transport is now redirected into growing her business and supporting her needs. 

“The losses I used to face because of the weather are gone,” she shares. “Now, I can sell freely and focus on growing.” Looking ahead, she dreams of owning her own retail shop, a goal that now feels within reach. Inspired by others around her, she plans to join the Business Leader Development Program, believing it will equip her with the skills to take her business even further. 

Yvonne also hopes that more rural communities can experience what she has found as a safe, supportive market hub combined with training opportunities that truly transform lives.