news 28 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Government to Restart Trade Order Enforcement Nationwide After Brief Pause
Uganda's Local Government Minister Raphael Magyezi has announced that Cabinet has approved resuming the enforcement of trade orders as initially planned, with enhanced sensitization and coordination. The move aims to organize urban areas amid challenges from uneven implementation and trader concerns. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-to-resume-trade-order-enforcement-after-four-day-suspension-5439890
Local Government Minister Raphael Magyezi revealed that Cabinet has decided to proceed with the original trade order enforcement following a four-day suspension. The rollout will now feature community sensitization efforts and coordinated action.
“The Cabinet agreed to resume implementation of the trade order as originally planned,” Magyezi stated.
A new inter-ministerial task force, including churches, vendors, and traders, will oversee the process. This involves reassigning traders to designated markets and setting up weekly market days in certain areas. Magyezi called on traders to cooperate with local authorities and steer clear of unauthorized spots.
“Let us work together to contribute to this good cause of having towns and localities that are organized, clean, healthy, and safe for all of us to live in,” he added in a Tuesday statement.
The initiative stems from a March 10, 2026, circular to Chief Administrative Officers and town clerks. It covers relocating traders to formal markets, clearing campaign posters, upholding food safety, better waste management, street lighting, public transport rules, and stricter building regulations. Local governments must craft customized strategies.
Initial enforcement saw vendors moved from streets to markets with police and UPDF help, but results have been inconsistent. Some traders, especially in Mbale City, have returned to cleared areas due to confusion from the suspension. Vendors complain of fewer customers, subpar conditions, and lower income in formal markets.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)