The vendors argue that many shops and roadside businesses across Kabale Municipality sell similar fresh food items found in the central market, making it difficult for market traders to attract customers and sustain their income.
In interviews with Nile Post, Norbert Tweheyo, Adams Asiimwe, and Grace Kyomuhendo, who operate from Kabale Central Market, said the absence of clear business zoning has weakened the role of the market as a designated trading space for fresh food vendors.
They said customers can now access the same products from different parts of town instead of visiting the central market, leading to declining sales.
“The central market was established to provide a designated trading space for fresh food vendors. The continued operation of similar businesses in other parts of town has undermined its purpose,” the traders said.
The vendors called on Kabale Municipal Council to develop and enforce a comprehensive zoning plan that groups similar businesses in designated areas.
They said proper zoning would improve order within the municipality, reduce congestion, make it easier for customers to locate goods and services, and promote fair competition among traders.
Kabale Municipality Deputy Town Clerk Erick Sunday acknowledged the concerns raised by the vendors, saying authorities are engaging business operators on the need to organise businesses according to their categories.
“The municipality is sensitising traders on the importance of complying with existing business guidelines and operating from designated areas. The council’s objective is to create a more organised business environment that benefits both traders and customers,” Sunday said.
He said effective business zoning would improve accessibility for consumers, promote healthy competition, and ensure that businesses comply with municipal regulations.
Sunday urged traders to cooperate with authorities during the ongoing consultations, saying the success of the zoning exercise would depend on their willingness to follow established guidelines.