Congested downtown Kampala
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Enforcement of the government directive ordering street vendors to vacate city streets, taxis to leave non-gazetted stages, and boda bodas to relocate to designated areas began at 2:00am today in Kampala.
Speaking at a press conference at the Uganda Media Centre, State Minister for Kampala, Kabuye Kyofatogabye, said the operation had already changed the city’s outlook.
“By morning, the streets looked noticeably cleaner and less congested,” Kyofatogabye said. He warned that enforcement will intensify. “By midnight, anyone found violating the directive will face the full force of the law.”The minister said the exercise follows an earlier directive issued by Kampala Minister Minsa Kabanda ordering the reorganization of city trade. Authorities say space has been prepared to absorb displaced traders.
Officials from Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) revealed that 2,520 spaces are available in 17 KCCA markets, with an additional 69 spaces secured in private markets.
“We engaged private market owners to create more space for traders relocating from the streets,” a KCCA official said.
KCCA added that pedestrian walkways were built to ease movement but had been taken over by vendors. “Walkways are meant for pedestrians, but traders had occupied them, disrupting movement.”
Committees under the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development will oversee the relocation process. KCCA says 929 boda boda stages have been created, with 160 already occupied. “Those who fail to comply will be removed,” authorities warned.
Taxi operators have been directed to load passengers only from gazetted parks, including Old Kampala Taxi Park and 19 other designated parks. Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke said law enforcement is supporting the operation.
“This is a government-led effort, and police are key in maintaining peace, security, and order. We urge the public to comply.”
Reactions among traders remain divided. Emmanuel Kalija, a street watch seller, criticized the move. “Good leadership is about proper planning, not chasing people from their workplaces. We need more time.” Nagawa Betty, a shoe vendor, said the notice period was too short. “Children have just gone back to school. We used our savings on fees and haven’t even sold all our stock.”
But some people are supportive of the directive. Tindyebwa Eric, chairman of Boda Container Village, welcomed the decision. “Congestion is too much. Boda bodas should operate from stages, and hawkers should leave the roads.”
Councillor Mujasi Amuza urged proper planning. “Vendors shouldn’t be evicted without clear alternative places.” Other traders fear losing livelihoods.Pilau vendor Nobert Muhwezi said: “This eviction could devastate small traders. Government should support us.”
Silver fish seller Gono Flo suggested flexible options. “If we leave the streets, at least allow us to sell in the evening. The economy is already hard.”
Government maintains the operation is meant to restore order, sanitation, and safety in the capital. But the mixed reactions highlight the challenge of balancing urban organization with the survival of thousands who depend on street trade.
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