Politics 24 April 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Government Halts Enforcement of Controversial Trade Order Amid Public Backlash
Uganda's government has suspended the enforcement of 'Trade Order' operations nationwide due to parliamentary pressure and public outcry over the harsh treatment of urban vendors. State Minister David Bahati announced the pause to facilitate consultations and provide orderly alternatives for affected traders. Source: https://observer.ug/news/govt-now-suspends-enforcement-of-trade-order-operations
The Ugandan government has put a stop to enforcing the contentious ‘Trade Order’ operations across the country. This move comes after intense scrutiny from parliament and widespread protests regarding the handling of street vendors in urban areas.
State Minister for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, David Bahati, informed lawmakers during a plenary session that the suspension aims to enable broader consultations. He emphasized ensuring displaced vendors have proper places in formal markets.
“We have heard the people’s concerns and those of this House,” Bahati stated. “Trade order enforcement is suspended until we align with stakeholders and secure spots for every affected vendor.”
Legislators had criticized the rollout of the National Resistance Movement manifesto’s goals, including the Parish Development Model, for threatening urban poor livelihoods without adequate support. While urban order is needed, they argued the approach was displacing vulnerable traders.
This decision follows a key meeting at the Ministry of Local Government, where Permanent Secretary Ben Kumumanya engaged with the Federation of Uganda Traders Association (FUTA) leaders, including John Kabanda, to adopt a kinder strategy.
Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) noted a rise in licensed traders from 12,536 to over 20,000, but many still lack stalls. FUTA’s Kabanda stressed tracking market stalls against evictions, calling enforcement without options mere displacement.
Statistics highlight the stakes: the informal sector employs 87% of non-agricultural workers per UBOS 2024 data, with 230,000 in Kampala relying on vending and related activities, according to a 2023 EPRC study.
The halt provides interim relief to traders hit since February 2026. A two-week consultation period will identify new sites, followed by community barazas. Parliament may boost funding for market builds, amid delays revealed in the Auditor General’s 2025 report.
Analysts view this as a timely political step ahead of 2026 dynamics, prioritizing jobs and urban welfare.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)