Kabale Municipal Council has issued a two-week notice to street vendors and boda boda riders operating in unauthorized areas, warning that enforcement—including evictions and demolition of illegal structures—will begin on March 28, 2026.
The directive targets informal businesses in the town’s central business district, including hawkers, unlicensed mobile traders, roadside food sellers, and unauthorized boda boda stages operating in restricted spaces.
Jamiil Kassajja explained that the operation will focus on temporary and illegal structures built along roads and in prohibited urban areas.
He noted that alternative trading sites have already been established in Mwanjari and Bugongi and urged affected vendors to relocate, stressing that the move is necessary to restore order and support proper urban planning.
"The initiative is part of a broader national effort to regulate business activities in urban centers. The growing number of street vendors has caused congestion and disorder, with many traders abandoning designated markets for roadside spaces," Kassajja said.
The crackdown will also affect boda boda riders who operate outside approved stages, aiming to improve safety, ease traffic congestion, and reduce road accidents.
Kassajja called on the public to cooperate, warning that strict action will be taken against anyone who fails to comply within the given timeframe.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions. Some street vendors said the notice is too short and fear the evictions will disrupt their incomes.
One vendor, speaking anonymously, urged authorities to extend the deadline to allow more time to prepare.
Meanwhile, traders within formal markets expressed support for the move. Gloria Komuhangi said street vendors create unfair competition by avoiding rent and taxes while offering lower prices.
Another trader, Alex Muhwezi, noted that many customers prefer street vendors due to convenience, which has reduced business for market-based traders.
As the March 28 deadline approaches, municipal authorities will face the challenge of enforcing regulations while balancing the economic impact on informal traders.
