Africa-Press – Uganda. Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has issued a stern warning to city businessman Augustine Shaka amid a simmering land dispute that threatens the livelihoods of hundreds of vendors at Nateete Market.
Shaka, who claims ownership of the land on which the bustling market sits, recently served vendors with a 30-day eviction notice set to expire today.
In the notice, delivered through his legal representatives, Shaka asserted that he has not benefited from the land since 2019 and accused the government of failing to honor a compensation agreement.
The threat of eviction has left Nateete Market vendors anxious and uncertain for weeks.
Many of them say they have traded in the market for decades, relying on it to support their families.
The looming eviction has fueled fears of displacement without alternative means of income or relocation.
Responding to the escalating tension, Lord Mayor Lukwago visited the market and assured vendors of his support.
He cautioned Shaka against taking unilateral action that could disrupt public order or the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.
“If Mr. Shaka is genuinely interested in pursuing justice and fairness, then he must not cause chaos or evict vendors by force,” Lukwago stated.
“There are legal avenues to resolve this matter without jeopardizing the lives of innocent Ugandans.”
Lukwago detailed the contested land’s history, explaining that it was initially owned by two deceased individuals Ali Nsimbe Kikuno and Damulira Numba. After their deaths, the property was briefly managed by an heir who later passed away.
Shaka is said to have acquired the land from Numba’s children, but Lukwago maintains they were not the rightful owners.
“This matter has been in dispute since around 2016,” the Mayor added.
“We at the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) are prepared to support a legal resolution, but no vendor should be victimized in the process.”
The Mayor’s intervention has been met with relief from market vendors, who praised his efforts to safeguard their interests.
Many called on the central government to honor any compensation agreements it may have with Shaka, thereby removing the vendors from the center of the conflict.
“We thank the Lord Mayor for standing with us,” said Jane Namatovu, a vendor who has worked in Nateete Market for over 25 years.
“All we want is peace and a chance to earn a living. If compensation is due, let the government pay him so we can continue our work.”
Local leaders from Lubaga Division have echoed Lukwago’s call for a peaceful resolution.
They emphasized the need for cooperation between all stakeholders government agencies, market vendors, and claimants to protect the economic wellbeing of those who rely on the market.
As the eviction deadline lapses, attention now turns to whether the central government will step in with a clear directive or compensation package.
Meanwhile, Lukwago has vowed to remain actively engaged in the matter to ensure the rights of city residents are not trampled in the name of property disputes.
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