Government officials have been warned against taking over market stalls meant for vendors in the newly planned markets in Wakiso District.
The warning was issued by the Undersecretary in the Ministry of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, Monica Edemachu Ejua, during the signing of contracts for the construction of Wakiso Central Daily Market and Kawuku Market at the district headquarters.
Edemachu cautioned civil servants against scrambling for stalls once the markets are completed, emphasizing that the facilities are intended to benefit genuine vendors.
“These markets are meant to improve the livelihoods of our traders. They are not for government officials or their relatives,” Edemachu said.
“We must ensure fairness and transparency in the allocation of stalls.”
She noted that in previous market projects, some officials irregularly allocated themselves and their family members market spaces, disadvantaging genuine traders.
“We have seen cases where civil servants grab stalls and leave the intended beneficiaries stranded. That must not happen here,” she warned.
The Chairperson of Wakiso District, Matia Lwanga Bwanika, also urged the Town Clerk to manage the allocation process carefully to prevent disputes among traders.
“The Town Clerk should ensure there are no conflicts among traders because some vendors paid money earlier and are now expecting to be considered for stalls in the new markets,” Bwanika said.
Wakiso District signed contracts worth Shs43.7 billion for the two market projects, marking a significant step toward boosting economic activity and improving trade infrastructure in the area.
Scaffold Engineering and Construction Ltd, led by Managing Director Dinesh Patel, was awarded the contract to construct Kawuku Market at a cost of Shs19.804 billion.
Techno Three Uganda Ltd, represented by Director Amandeep Singh, will undertake the construction of Wakiso Central Daily Market at a cost of Shs23.991 billion.
Project supervision was awarded to UB Consulting Engineers at a cost of Shs2.27 billion to ensure quality standards, cost control, and compliance with environmental safeguards.
Chief Administrative Officer Jude Mark Bukenya confirmed that all necessary funds have been secured and that construction is expected to begin immediately, with completion scheduled within one year.
“These markets are more than just physical structures,” Bukenya said. “They represent job creation, empowerment, and dignity for vendors, especially women and youth, and a strong foundation for local economic growth.”
District leaders and contractors attended the signing ceremony, officially paving the way for construction to commence in the Financial Year 2025/2026.
Once completed, the markets are expected to modernize trade infrastructure, create employment opportunities, promote organized trade, and serve as key commercial hubs to stimulate long-term economic transformation in Wakiso District.
