Africa-Press – Uganda. Tension is rising in Kampala as street vendors and shop owners push back against a citywide ban on roadside trading, claiming it has disrupted livelihoods and hurt business across the capital.
The Mayor of Kampala Central, Salim Uhuru, criticised city authorities for failing to implement previously promised arrangements for vendors, including designated trading days—particularly Sundays—and evening operating hours.
“We cannot make promises to people and then fail to deliver,” Uhuru said, adding that he will push for the city leadership to fulfill what was agreed upon.
The crackdown, spearheaded by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), was initially intended to decongest the city, improve sanitation, and restore order.
Areas such as Luwum Street and Ben Kiwanuka Street have since seen reduced congestion and smoother traffic flow.
However, the economic ripple effects are now becoming apparent. Vendors relocated to designated markets report that the new spaces are both inadequate and unaffordable, citing high stall fees and limited customer traffic.
“We were told to move into markets, but there’s no space, and even where there is, the rent is too high for us,” one vendor lamented.
Formal shop owners, expected to benefit from the removal of street vendors, are also feeling the impact. Vendors were among their biggest customers, purchasing goods in bulk for resale.
Without this clientele, shop operators say sales have dropped significantly.
The Kampala Traders Association has warned that many shopkeepers are struggling to stay afloat, urging a balanced approach that accommodates both urban order and economic activity.
Meanwhile, enforcement remains strict. KCCA officers continue to patrol major streets to prevent vendors from returning, with some journalists reportedly mistaken for traders while covering the story.
KCCA spokesperson Daniel Nuwabiine acknowledged the concerns raised by vendors and traders, saying the authority is aware of the challenges and is working toward solutions.
Vendors are calling for the immediate introduction of flexible trading arrangements, including weekend markets and evening hours, as had been promised.
Mayor Uhuru urged city leaders to treat the matter with urgency, expressing hope that a resolution can be reached within a week, emphasizing that a clean and organized city must not come at the cost of residents’ livelihoods.
