news 13 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Rukiga Traders Petition Museveni Over Fenced-Off Rushebeya Market Land
Traders and leaders in Rukiga District have urged President Museveni to resolve a dispute over Rushebeya Market land, fenced off by an investor, squeezing hundreds of vendors into a smaller space. The historic site, vital for regional trade and revenue, faces loss after a court-ordered sale to private hands. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/museveni-petitioned-over-contested-rukiga-market-land-5422552
Traders and local officials in Rukiga District’s Rwamucucu Sub-county are calling on President Museveni to step in after an investor fenced off part of the Rushebeya Market land. The market, a longstanding hub since colonial era in Rweeza Village, draws vendors from Kabale, Rukungiri, Rubanda, Rukiga, and Ntungamo for bi-monthly trade in goods and produce.
On Monday, hundreds of traders found themselves confined to a reduced area, disrupting operations. Oliva Mugwagye, a kitchenware seller, highlighted the squeeze and pleaded for urgent government action to protect businesses.
Sub-county LCIII chair Eddy Mugisha noted prior presidential directive for compensation via State Minister Chris Baryomunsi, with valuers assessing but no follow-up. The investor’s identity remains unclear, linked to a chain from initial buyer Adroni Alfred.
Tomasi Kamirindi, mobile traders’ chair, said the remaining space can’t hold over 1,000 vendors. Sub-county chief Paddy Mbabazi warned of losing Shs360,000 monthly revenue from rents and licenses.
The conflict traces to a 2015 High Court appeal won by Gakyaro David and Yosam Byandusya against the sub-county, leading to a Shs12.306 million payout order. Non-compliance triggered land attachment and auction sale of 2.702 acres in 2017.
Rukiga RDC Zadok Kamusiime called for calm, assuring the President’s awareness and commitment.
Source: Daily Monitor