Arua City Launches UGX 1.6 Billion Onduparaka Market Construction Project

Arua City, Uganda — July 21, 2025Arua City Council has officially launched the construction of the long-awaited Onduparaka Market in Ayivu Division, a UGX 1.6 billion project aimed at enhancing economic opportunities and supporting the integration of forcibly displaced persons in the region.

The project is being funded by the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) under its Financial Durable Solutions (FDS) for Forcibly Displaced People initiative. The market construction will be carried out in two phases—phase one valued at UGX 1.033 billion and phase two estimated at UGX 601 million.

Speaking during the launch ceremony, the Deputy Town Clerk, Mr. Kabiri Charles, highlighted the strategic importance of the project in promoting economic resilience and improving the livelihoods of both local residents and refugee communities. He reaffirmed Arua City Council’s commitment to ensuring the successful execution of the project.

The Mayor of Ayivu Division, Hon. Malon Avutia, expressed gratitude to the UNCDF and Arua City leadership for prioritizing the Onduparaka Market in the city's development agenda. He noted that the market will not only provide a secure and dignified space for vendors but also stimulate local economic growth.In a strong message to the project contractor, the Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Mr. Kumakech Salim warned against the importation of labor from outside the West Nile region. He stressed the need to prioritize local employment and maintain high standards in project implementation.

“This project must serve our people both in terms of quality and opportunity. We have skilled labor here in West Nile and the benefits of such initiatives should remain within our community,” Mr. Kumakech emphasized.Once completed, the Onduparaka Market is expected to benefit hundreds of vendors and promote inclusive growth, particularly for refugees and host communities in Arua City, which currently accommodates an estimated 24,000 refugees.

The project marks a major milestone in the city’s efforts to create durable solutions that address both humanitarian and developmental needs, aligning with broader goals of resilience and economic empowerment for displaced populations.