Authorities in Rukungiri Municipality have issued a two-week ultimatum to street vendors operating along the town’s High Street, ordering them to vacate the area or face enforcement action.
The directive was announced by Town Clerk Isaiah Tumwesigye during a meeting with vendors held at the municipal premises.
Tumwesigye stated that, effective two weeks from March 2, 2026, no street vending would be permitted along High Street during daytime hours. He clarified, however, that night vending would still be allowed, with vendors permitted to operate from 5:00 p.m. onwards.
"This move is part of broader efforts to restore order in the municipality. Illegal structures along the main street will not be tolerated, and shop owners are also prohibited from displaying goods outside their premises," Tumwesigye noted.
According to the town clerk, the directive aligns with a nationwide initiative by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, following guidance from the Government of Uganda, aimed at removing vendors from roadsides to improve sanitation, reduce accidents, and enhance tax collection.
Municipal Health Inspector Eva Asiimwe supported the decision, citing poor sanitation among vendors as a major concern. She urged those who continue operating at night to maintain proper hygiene standards.
"Improper waste disposal practices, including the use of buckets for sewage and dumping waste in drainage channels or on roads, must stop. Vendors should utilize public toilets to maintain cleanliness and safeguard public health," Asiimwe said.
However, the directive has drawn criticism from several vendors, including Muhammad Sari, Osbert Nasasira, and Esther Babura, who expressed dissatisfaction with the council’s decision. They argued that street vending is their primary source of livelihood, enabling them to afford basic needs such as food, shelter, and school fees.
