Gitega's central market is the most active part of the town and gives the clearest picture of everyday life in Burundi's capital. The market sells vegetables, fruit, dry goods, textiles, and household items across a dense warren of stalls. The range of produce reflects Gitega's position in the fertile central highlands: sweet potatoes, cassava, plantains, and the highland beans that are a Burundian staple.
The surrounding streets have small shops and traders selling everything from secondhand clothing to phone accessories. This part of town is busiest in the morning; by early afternoon some stalls begin closing. The market and its environs are also the best place to find simple local food — brochettes (skewered meat), beans and rice, and brewed sorghum beer served at roadside stalls.