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Zando: Kinshasa's Revamped Market Set to Reopen in February

1/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Dieudonné Bakarani, a 57-year-old entrepreneur, redevelops Kinshasa Central Market into Zando, aiming to reopen in February after a five-year closure.
Zando will have 10,000 stalls and modern amenities while preserving market character, designed by Think Tank Architecture Paysage Urbanisme with local materials and sustainable practices.
Despite accusations of corruption, Bakarani sees Zando as a model for future African projects and hopes to attract international partners.

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Story summary

Dieudonné Bakarani, a 57-year-old entrepreneur, redevelops Kinshasa Central Market into Zando, aiming to reopen in February after a five-year closure.
Zando will have 10,000 stalls and modern amenities while preserving market character, designed by Think Tank Architecture Paysage Urbanisme with local materials and sustainable practices.
Despite accusations of corruption, Bakarani sees Zando as a model for future African projects and hopes to attract international partners.