Enock Ndyamuhakyi | Tayari News
KABALE – Authorities in Kabale Municipality have temporarily halted the implementation of its trade order enforcement, citing the need for more comprehensive sensitization of traders and business operators.
The eviction exercise, which had been scheduled to commence on Saturday, March 28, 2026, was intended to target a wide range of informal and non-compliant business activities. These include street vendors, hawkers, unregistered mobile businesses, unauthorized parking stages, street food sellers, and other informal street-based enterprises.
The operation was also aimed at addressing concerns related to old and dilapidated buildings, as well as structures that do not conform to the approved municipal physical development plan.
According to municipal authorities, the enforcement is part of a broader effort to restore order, improve sanitation, and ensure planned urban development within the municipality.
Speaking to our reporter from his office, the Deputy Town Clerk, Erick Sunday, confirmed that the exercise has been postponed until after the Easter period, with specific dates yet to be determined.
“We have decided to extend the implementation to after Easter because many traders and business operators have not yet been adequately sensitized about the new trade order,” Sunday said.
He explained that the decision was made to avoid unnecessary destruction of people’s property and to give ample time for proper communication.
“We do not want a situation where people’s goods are destroyed. That is why we found it necessary to first engage and inform them before enforcement begins,” he added.
Sunday emphasized that the municipality intends to implement the trade order in a humane and organized manner, without disrupting livelihoods.
He further revealed that the municipality has already identified and prepared alternative trading spaces, particularly in Mwanjari Market, which he described as fully operational and ready to accommodate affected traders.
“We have designated areas, especially in Mwanjari Market, which are fully functional and ready to receive traders. Those who are ready can relocate even before the official enforcement resumes,” Sunday noted.
He added that the council, in collaboration with other stakeholders, resolved to first conduct a thorough sensitization campaign.
“We want traders to understand the importance of operating in gazetted areas and complying with the trade order before we begin evictions,” he said.
Sunday also disclosed that a stakeholders’ meeting is scheduled for next week to agree on a clear roadmap and set new dates for the eviction exercise.
Despite the postponement, he stressed that the trade order enforcement will proceed as planned since it is a directive from the Ministry of Local Government.
“This is a government directive, and we shall implement it. Once new dates are communicated, enforcement will be strict,” he warned.
Meanwhile, the Kabale District Town Clerk, Hajji Jamil Kassajja, said the temporary suspension of the eviction exercise is intended to streamline the process and prevent confusion among affected groups.
“We have seen in other towns that when such operations are rushed, they create panic and confusion. We want this process to be orderly and well understood by everyone,” Kassajja said.
He noted that the enforcement will not only target street vendors but also a broader range of non-compliant entities.
“People are focusing on street vendors, but there are many other categories, including illegal structures, unauthorized businesses, and dilapidated buildings that do not meet municipal standards,” he explained.
Kassajja emphasized that the move is aimed at promoting orderly urban development and improving public safety.
“This exercise is meant to improve the image of our municipality, ensure safety, and create a more organized business environment,” he added.
He called upon all affected individuals to cooperate with authorities and use the grace period to regularize their operations or relocate.
“We encourage everyone to comply and take advantage of this time to move to designated areas. The municipality will continue engaging stakeholders to ensure a smooth and fair process,” Kassajja concluded.