The Government of Uganda has signed a Shs13 billion contract with Hebron Investments Limited to commence the construction of a modern produce market in Mpigi District, a development that has been warmly welcomed by local traders.
The project falls under the Kampala Metropolitan Urban Development Programme, an initiative aimed at improving infrastructure and boosting economic development in areas surrounding Kampala.
The construction of the Mpigi modern market is expected to take two years and is intended to address the persistent shortage of organized produce markets in Greater Mpigi, while also expanding trading space for agricultural produce dealers.
The contract signing ceremony was attended by leaders from Greater Mpigi, including the Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs, Monica Edemachu Ejua, who represented the government during the signing with Hebron Investments Limited.
Traders operating in Mpigi market expressed excitement over the government’s commitment, noting that congestion and limited space have long hindered their work.
“When we started trading here, the number of vendors was small and the market could accommodate us. Over time, the population has grown, more people joined the business, and the market became too small. We have been working under very difficult conditions,” the traders said.
They further applauded the government for fulfilling its pledge.
“Sometimes promises remain words, but this time the President has delivered. We are grateful. What we ask is that construction begins quickly and is done properly so that we can finally get the market we have waited for,” they added.
Speaking at the event, Monica Edemachu Ejua said the project is aligned with government efforts to develop metropolitan areas and promote commercial agriculture.
“This market will expand trading space for produce vendors as more people join agribusiness. Government wants more citizens to engage in this sector so that agricultural trade grows, livelihoods improve, and poverty reduction programs succeed,” she said.
She urged Hebron Investments Limited to deliver quality work within the stipulated time and prioritize employing residents of Mpigi District.
Local leaders led by Mawokota North MP-elect Ann Amelia Kyambadde thanked the government, noting that the market will significantly reduce risks faced by farmers and traders transporting produce to Kampala.
“Many of our people have been involved in road accidents while transporting produce to markets like Busega in Kampala. Some fall off trucks, sustain injuries, and lose their produce. All this has been happening because Mpigi lacked a proper market,” Kyambadde said.
She expressed optimism that the new market will reduce such challenges.
“Now that we have a market here, traders from Gomba and Butambala will bring their produce to Mpigi. We thank the government for listening to our appeal,” she added.
Mpigi District Commercial Officer Ronald Kazibwe assured traders that those currently operating in the market will be given first priority during allocation of stalls once construction is complete.
The modern market is expected to accommodate over 4,000 traders. The project also includes complementary infrastructure such as tarmacked access roads, including the Mpigi–Muduuma road, which has already entered the construction phase.