Timber traders in Ibanda Municipality have been officially relocated to a new site in Kyabarende on privately owned land belonging to businessman Expedito Bataringaya, following a heated and closely contested decision by the municipal council.
The resolution was reached during a council sitting held on Wednesday, where leaders debated the most suitable location for the traders, who have been operating on a temporary site along the Ibanda–Mbarara main road.
The traders were initially allowed to use the public land after a devastating fire in October 2025 destroyed timber worth millions of shillings at their previous location. Since then, they have been awaiting a permanent solution from authorities.
During the council session, divisions emerged among councilors over whether the traders should be relocated to a public site in Nyabuhikye or remain in a more central and accessible location.
A section of councilors supported the Nyabuhikye proposal, arguing it would stimulate development in the area. “Relocating these businesses to Nyabuhikye would open up the area and spur economic growth,” one councilor noted.
However, others opposed the move, citing logistical and economic concerns. “Taking timber traders to Nyabuhikye will increase transport costs for buyers and affect business,” another councilor argued, urging council to consider Bataringaya’s land instead.
As the debate grew increasingly contentious, the Municipal Speaker called for a vote, where the majority of councilors supported relocating the traders to Bataringaya’s land under a rental arrangement.
Speaking during the meeting, Ibanda Municipality Vice Mayor Deus Warugaba cautioned against the Nyabuhikye option, citing unresolved land ownership issues. “It would not be prudent to move traders to Nyabuhikye when the ownership of that land is still questionable,” he said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Town Clerk Pius Murekyezi emphasized the strategic importance of Nyabuhikye in future urban planning. “Nyabuhikye remains a key area for urban development, and its utilization should be carefully considered,” he explained.
The relocation highlights broader challenges facing Ibanda Municipality as it continues to expand. Like many growing urban centers, the municipality is grappling with rapid urbanization, youth unemployment, and increased rural-to-urban migration.
With more young people moving into town in search of opportunities, small and medium enterprises such as timber trading have become vital sources of employment and income.
Authorities say the new arrangement is expected to provide stability for the traders while sustaining economic activity within the municipality.