Trade Order Creates Havoc for Uganda's Poultry Dealers

Uganda’s poultry sector is facing significant hardship due to the recent implementation of a Trade Order by the Ministry of Local Government. This directive mandates local authorities to move traders from streets, pavements, and verandas into designated formal markets, ostensibly to improve urban cleanliness, food safety, and local revenue.

However, the abrupt enforcement, which began in Kampala and spread to other major towns, has disrupted established market channels for poultry farmers and dealers. In Jinja, for example, poultry farmers report a drastic drop in sales of eggs and live chickens, as their primary buyers – roadside vendors – have been displaced. “The market is no longer reliable, yet the birds must be fed daily,” lamented one farmer.

The increased operational costs are substantial. “Keeping unsold chickens means more money spent on chicken feeds and care,” explained another farmer. Some are now forced to sell their stock at considerably lower prices to avoid total losses.

Traders who previously operated on roadsides are also feeling the impact, with many unable to find suitable alternative locations. This disruption affects the entire supply chain, as customers are less likely to find their preferred vendors.

In Gulu City, poultry dealers were forced to relocate, with some moving to markets kilometres away from the city centre. Unable to secure a permanent selling spot, some dealers have resorted to mobile sales, using pick-up trucks and motorcycles to find buyers throughout town.

Similar struggles are reported in Lira, Soroti, Arua, Mukono, and Masindi. Chicken and egg sellers in Arua have seen daily profits plummet, with some fearing they won’t be able to afford school fees. In Masindi, some traders have shifted their businesses to the main market, while others have turned their homes into makeshift workplaces due to expensive market dues and rent.

While the Trade Order aims to bring order and improve sanitation, its immediate consequences have been detrimental to the livelihoods of many in the poultry industry, forcing them to innovate and adapt to survive.

This article is based on reporting by Daily Monitor.