By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
Government has resolved to continue with the nationwide implementation and enforcement of the trade order, despite mounting public outcry from traders, vendors and civil society groups.
Addressing journalists on Tuesday, the Minister of Local Government, Raphael Magyezi, said cabinet, during its sitting on Monday, (April 27) agreed that the exercise should proceed as earlier planned.
“Cabinet at its sitting yesterday agreed and resolved that the implementation of the trade order should continue as earlier planned,” Magyezi told journalists on Tuesday, urging traders to cooperate with authorities.
The trade order was first rolled out by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) in February to restore order in the central business district, decongest the city and improve sanitation and solid waste management. It was later extended to municipalities and town councils nationwide in March.
However, the exercise has faced resistance from sections of the public, who cited limited sensitisation and lack of alternative markets. Some traders, under their umbrella bodies, alongside faith-based organisations, petitioned government over alleged harsh enforcement, including demolition of structures, prompting a temporary suspension.
Magyezi said the directive, issued under the Trade Licensing Act (Cap 101), requires local governments to relocate street traders to gazetted markets, remove campaign posters, enforce proper food handling standards and strengthen waste management.
Other measures include ensuring traders are licensed, regulating urban transport operations, and enforcing orderly physical planning and development.
To address concerns, Magyezi said the ministry will intensify community sensitisation and set up a multi-stakeholder task force involving traders, vendors and religious leaders to oversee implementation.
“One of the complaints was that we rushed into implementation. We are going to step up sensitization. The NRM is a listening government, and we shall set up a task force involving traders and faith-based organizations,” he said.
Kampala minister Hajjati Minsa Kabanda said KCCA will work closely with the Local Government ministry to enforce the directive, commending traders in the capital for cooperating so far.
She, however, condemned incidents of brutality by some enforcement officers.
“Enforcement teams must remain firm consistent and professional ensuring that operations are conducted within their law and with respect for human dignity,” Kabanda said.
Kabanda noted that the exercise has already registered gains, including improved sanitation, enhanced public safety and reduced congestion in the city.
KCCA spokesperson Daniel Nuwabaine also attributed improvements in waste management and orderliness in Kampala to the ongoing enforcement.
Government said the crackdown will also target the transport sector, particularly boda boda riders and commuter taxis operating illegally in the central business district.
“Boda boda riders are not above the law,” Kabanda said, adding that engagements with their leaders are ongoing to streamline their operations.
