Kamuli, Uganda: Street vendors in Kamuli Municipality have pleaded for a grace period after municipal authorities intensified operations to clear traders from streets and walkways in a bid to restore order in the town.
The enforcement follows a directive issued two weeks ago by the municipal leadership ordering vendors to vacate public walkways and relocate to designated trading spaces in markets and other approved areas.
Many vendors say the transition has disrupted their businesses and are appealing to authorities for more time to settle into the new locations.
“Yes, we know the cost that comes with growth but we ask the authorities to go slow and realistic as we find where to trade and squat and also keep directing our regular customers to our new places,” said Shadia Nangobi, popularly known as Mama Kigaito, who sells second-hand shoes and bedsheets along Crawford Road near the town roundabout.
Nangobi noted that street vendors contribute to local revenue and provide convenient access to goods for customers. “Though we are seen as an inconvenience, we are loyal taxpayers paying dues daily and we have helped customers easily access goods,” she said.
The Kamuli Municipal Town Clerk, Stanislaus Mangasa, maintained that the eviction directive must be implemented to create order and sanity in the growing municipality.
“We issued an order for them to vacate trading on the walkways and streets and provided them space in the markets and near public spaces like the stadium,” Mangasa said.
He revealed that some vendors operating around Brewer Road and the roundabout had already complied with the directive. “Those who remain adamant will have their goods impounded,” he warned.
Mangasa also disclosed that the next phase of enforcement will target boda boda riders operating without designated stages. “Boda bodas have become a menace staging everywhere and anywhere, and some thieves disguise themselves as operators,” he said.
The municipality plans to work with boda boda association leaders to ensure all riders are registered and allocated specific operating stages.
Mixed reactions from residents
The crackdown has sparked mixed reactions among residents, with some welcoming the improved order while others worry about the impact on small traders.
“We appreciate the order in town. Even the lunatics have relocated, meaning some of them could have been thieves in disguise,” said Asuman Kintu, a resident. He urged authorities to also address other issues, such as stray animals roaming the municipality.
However, Jane Namukasa, another resident, said street vendors had been helpful in making everyday purchases more convenient. “We have been used to finding things as you move, pick interest, negotiate and buy. Now, looking for them in the crowded market or far distances may affect their businesses,” she said.
Municipal authorities say the exercise is part of broader efforts to organise the town, improve movement along streets and strengthen urban management in Kamuli Municipality.
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