Authorities in Kabale Municipality have announced that enforcement of a new trade order will officially begin on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, marking the start of a phased operation aimed at restoring order in the town’s business environment.
The confirmation was made by Deputy Town Clerk Eric Sunday following a closed-door meeting with key stakeholders at the municipal council hall. The meeting brought together local leaders and representatives to harmonize enforcement strategies.
“Traders, particularly those currently operating along streets and public spaces, have already been notified about the new regulations and understand what will be required of them moving forward,” Sunday said.
He explained that the enforcement will be implemented in phases, beginning with small-scale traders such as street vendors and those displaying merchandise along roadsides and pedestrian walkways. Authorities say this initial focus is intended to ease congestion and improve accessibility within the central business area.
After a two-week transition period, enforcement will extend to timber dealers starting May 4, requiring them to comply with the new guidelines.
“The municipality is intentionally allowing a transition period to give traders enough time to relocate voluntarily to designated trading areas,” Sunday noted. “This approach is meant to minimize disruptions, prevent unnecessary losses, and avoid the forced removal or destruction of goods.”
“The process is orderly and humane rather than abrupt and punitive,” he added.
Despite the grace period, municipal authorities have emphasized that the directive will be strictly enforced, warning that no further extensions will be granted beyond the current timeline.
The trade order forms part of a broader nationwide initiative targeting municipalities, cities, and town councils to streamline business operations and improve urban management. Its implementation had initially been scheduled for March 28 but was postponed to allow for additional consultations and to give traders more time to prepare and relocate.