The Government has reassured traders affected by the ongoing Trade Order operations that efforts are underway to secure alternative workspaces for those who may not be accommodated within existing markets

Speaking during a consultative meeting held on April 23, 2026, at the Ministry of Local Government headquarters, the Permanent Secretary, Ben Kumumanya, emphasized the Government’s commitment to ensuring that all displaced vendors are able to resume their businesses as quickly as possible. The meeting brought together traders’ representatives led by the President of the Federation of Uganda Traders Association (FUTA), John Kabanda, to address concerns arising from the implementation of the Trade Order and to review progress across various local governments.

Kumumanya noted that while the Trade Order policy remains sound in its objectives, there is a need to improve its implementation. He stressed that the initiative is intended to restore order in urban areas, improve sanitation, ease traffic congestion, and ensure that business activities are conducted within officially gazetted trading spaces.

He, however, condemned reports of inhumane enforcement methods in some areas, including forceful evictions, confiscation of goods, and demolition of business structures without proper notice. Such actions, he said, undermine the purpose of the policy and should not be tolerated. He called for enforcement to be carried out in a fair, lawful, and humane manner.

Representing the Executive Director of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), spokesperson David Nuwabine informed the meeting that the number of licensed traders in Kampala has increased significantly from 12,536 to over 20,000 since the exercise began in February 2026. He described this as a positive indicator of progress in formalizing businesses and improving urban management.

Kumumanya further revealed that a follow-up meeting will be held in two weeks to provide updates on agreed actions after further consultations with stakeholders. He also announced plans for nationwide sensitization campaigns and community barazas aimed at helping traders and the public better understand the Trade Order policy.

The meeting was attended by several key officials, including the Commissioner for Urban Administration in the Ministry of Local Government, Charles Magumba; Jones Makula Mukasa from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives; and Presidential Advisor on Markets, Winnie Atwine.

Reported by Issa Kigongo