By Mahmud Aminu Hanga
Kurmi Market, also known as Kasuwar Kurmi, stands as one of the oldest and most significant trading hubs in West Africa. Kasuwar Kurmi has been in Existence for over 2,000 years ago but Rediscovered Over 500 years ago by the Legendary Kano Sultan Sarkin Kano Muhammad Dan Yakubu, known as Muhammad Rumfa (from 1463 until 1499), known for his Pedigree for Wealth and Opulence that Signaled the Rise of Kano ‘s Commercial Dominance in the Region.
The market has been a center of commerce, culture, and social interaction for centuries. Its historical significance, diverse range of goods, and strategic location have cemented its reputation as a focal point of economic activity in Kano State, Nigeria.
➢Historical Overview of Kurmi Market
Kurmi Market was Re-established during the reign of Sarkin Kano Muhammad Rumfa in the 15th century, though its roots trace back even further. As a central point for trade across the trans-Saharan trade routes, the market became a melting pot of various cultures and civilizations. Merchants from North Africa, the Middle East, Europe and other parts of West Africa converged in Kurmi Market to trade goods such as gold, salt, spices, textiles, and more.
Over the centuries, Kurmi Market evolved from a simple trading post into a sprawling complex that facilitated commerce across diverse sectors. It played a pivotal role in Kano’s rise as a major economic and cultural hub, contributing significantly to the state’s wealth and prestige.
➢Current Capacity and Activities of Kurmi Market
Today, Kurmi Market covers an expansive area in Kano’s ancient city, housing thousands of stalls and shops. It is a vibrant marketplace that attracts vendors and buyers from across Nigeria and beyond. The market is divided into various sections, each specializing in different types of goods, including:
- Textiles and Fabrics: Kurmi Market is renowned for its wide selection of textiles, including traditional Nigerian fabrics such as Ankara, Adire, and Aso Oke. The textile section alone accounts for approximately 30% of the market’s revenue, with an estimated annual turnover of ₦5 billion ($6.6 million).
- Handicrafts and Artisanal Goods: The market is a treasure trove of handcrafted items, including pottery, leather goods, jewelry, and traditional musical instruments. These artisanal products attract tourists and collectors, generating an estimated ₦2 billion ($2.6 million) in annual sales.
- Agricultural Products: As a hub for agricultural trade, Kurmi Market offers a wide range of products, including grains, spices, and dried goods. The agricultural section is responsible for about 25% of the market’s revenue, with annual sales reaching ₦4 billion ($5.3 million).
- Leather Goods: Kano is historically known for its leatherwork, and Kurmi Market is a key center for the sale of high-quality leather products, such as bags, shoes, and belts. This sector generates an estimated ₦3 billion ($4 million) annually.
- Spices and Traditional Medicines: The market is also famous for its spices and traditional medicines, attracting both local and international buyers. This section of the market contributes around ₦1.5 billion ($2 million) annually to the market’s total revenue.
➢Global Reach and Vendor Diversity
Kurmi Market’s reputation extends far beyond Nigeria’s borders. Vendors from countries such as Niger, Chad, Mali, and even as far as Morocco, Egypt, and Sudan frequent the market to trade goods. This international presence enhances the market’s diversity and enriches the variety of products available.
For instance, traditional Moroccan rugs, Egyptian jewelry, and Sudanese spices are just a few examples of the exotic goods found in Kurmi Market. These products not only attract local buyers but also serve as a draw for tourists, contributing to the market’s annual tourism revenue, which is estimated at ₦500 million ($660,000).
➢Challenges Facing Kurmi Market
Despite its rich history and economic importance, Kurmi Market faces several challenges that hinder its full potential: - Infrastructure and Accessibility: The market’s infrastructure has not kept pace with its growth. Narrow walkways, poor drainage, and inadequate facilities make it difficult for both vendors and buyers to navigate the market. This limits the market’s capacity to handle large crowds, especially during peak trading periods.
- Regulatory Issues: The lack of modern regulatory frameworks has led to issues such as inconsistent pricing, counterfeit goods, and tax evasion. These challenges reduce the market’s efficiency and discourage potential investors.
- Competition from Modern Markets: The rise of modern shopping malls and e-commerce platforms has created stiff competition for traditional markets like Kurmi. These modern alternatives offer a more convenient shopping experience, drawing customers away from Kurmi Market.
- Environmental Concerns: Poor waste management and pollution have negatively impacted the market’s environment, making it less attractive to both
vendors and customers. This issue is particularly pressing in the sections dealing with perishable goods, where hygiene is critical.
➢Recommendations for a Better Kurmi Market
To ensure that Kurmi Market remains a thriving commercial hub for the next 2,000 years, the following recommendations are essential: - Infrastructure Modernization: The Kano State government should prioritize upgrading the market’s infrastructure. This includes widening walkways, improving drainage systems, and providing modern facilities such as restrooms and waste disposal units. An investment of ₦2 billion ($2.6 million) could significantly enhance the market’s capacity and customer experience, leading to an estimated 20% increase in annual turnover.
- E-commerce Integration: To compete with modern shopping platforms, Kurmi Market should adopt e-commerce solutions. Vendors can be encouraged to create online profiles and sell their goods through digital marketplaces. The state government could partner with tech companies to develop a dedicated e-commerce platform for Kurmi Market. This initiative could increase the market’s reach and boost sales by 30%, potentially adding ₦4 billion ($5.3 million) to annual revenue.
- Regulatory Reforms: Implementing clear and consistent regulations will help standardize pricing, reduce counterfeit goods, and improve tax collection. The establishment of a Market Management Authority could oversee these reforms and ensure compliance. Improved regulation could lead to a 15% increase in market efficiency, translating to an additional ₦3 billion ($4 million) in revenue.
- Promoting Eco-Friendly Practices: Addressing environmental concerns is crucial for maintaining the market’s appeal. The state government should introduce waste management systems and encourage vendors to adopt sustainable practices. These efforts could not only improve the market’s hygiene but also
attract more environmentally conscious customers, potentially increasing foot traffic by 10%. - Capacity Building for Vendors: Providing training programs for vendors on modern business practices, digital literacy, and customer service can enhance their competitiveness. By investing ₦500 million ($660,000) in capacity-building initiatives, the market could see a 25% increase in vendor productivity, resulting in higher overall market profitability.
Conclusion: Preserving a Legacy and Embracing the Future
Kurmi Market is not just a marketplace; it is a symbol of Kano’s rich history and enduring economic significance. By addressing its current challenges and embracing modern solutions, Kurmi Market can continue to thrive as a global trading hub. The potential for growth is immense, and with the right investments and policies, Kurmi Market can increase its annual revenue by over 50%, creating more jobs, attracting more tourists, and solidifying its position as a key driver of Kano’s economy.
As Kano State looks to the future, preserving and enhancing Kurmi Market should be a top priority. The market’s legacy is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the people of Kano, and with continued support, it will remain a vital part of the state’s commercial landscape for generations to come.