A section of traders in Kampala have declared their intention to take a more assertive political stance as Uganda heads toward the 2026 general elections.
The move, announced on Wednesday by former Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA) official Thaddeus Musoke Nagenda, marks a significant strategic shift within the business community, which says it has grown frustrated by government policies perceived as unsupportive.
Nagenda—who recently launched the National Entrepreneurs and Traders Association (NETA) and now serves as its chairman—told journalists that traders will openly back political candidates who demonstrate commitment to addressing the challenges facing the business sector.
“We’re going to openly reveal and campaign for politicians who back our interests. It’s time we take a more proactive approach to ensuring our voices are heard in government. We will support those who understand the challenges we face and are willing to work with us to create a more conducive business environment,” Nagenda said.
He added that traders were tired of their concerns being ignored.
“As traders, we contribute significantly to the economy, but often our concerns fall on deaf ears. It’s time we use our collective power to influence policy decisions that affect us directly.”
According to Nagenda, the association will identify and publicly endorse politicians who have shown commitment to tackling issues such as taxation, market infrastructure, trade regulations, and the broader regulatory framework.
He emphasized that NETA’s support will extend beyond financial contributions, with plans to mobilize traders across the country to actively participate in campaigns for endorsed candidates.
“We expect our supported politicians to be advocates for traders’ rights and interests. This is a new chapter in Uganda’s political landscape, where the business community is taking a more assertive role in shaping and amplifying its voice,” he said.
NETA Secretary General Samuel Kyambadde reinforced the association’s position, noting that traders cannot afford to detach themselves from politics when the policies governing their businesses originate in Parliament and at cabinet level.
“We shall differ from other associations that argue traders should not practically support politicians or engage in politics. Our basis is that decisions and policies are made by politicians. Why can’t we support serious politicians with the backing of the business community?” Kyambadde said.
He revealed that NETA’s offices are open to politicians across the political divide and that the association will soon announce the specific candidates it intends to fund and support.
The business community has for years protested what it describes as unfair tax policies, burdensome trade regulations, and increasing operational pressures.
Key concerns include the taxation of imported garments and textiles based on weight, which can increase costs for businesses, as well as implementation challenges associated with the Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing System (EFRIS).
Additionally, high rent in commercial hubs adds financial pressure, while competition from foreign traders in the retail sector further complicates the business environment.
These frustrations were compounded in October, when heavy floods devastated downtown Kampala, destroying merchandise and impacting businesses. Many traders argued that the flooding was worsened by ongoing construction along the Nakivubo channel.