Written By | Joshua Nahamya
Some of the businesses that risk being chased alongside Rubirizi roads
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RUBIRIZI
As the government intensifies enforcement of the national trade order, vendors in Katerera Town Council are appealing for a more empathetic approach to relocation, warning that a blanket ban on street trading could trigger socio-economic crises at the household level.
The operation, which gained momentum in Kampala Capital City, has since expanded to Mbale, Soroti, Jinja, Mbarara, Bushenyi, and other major urban centres. The campaign aims to standardise urban trade, improve sanitation, and ensure the orderly growth of Uganda’s towns and cities.
Concerns Over Livelihoods and Social Stability
Vicent Arinaitwe, Chairperson of the Katerera Vendors’ Association, has called on the government to prioritise education and alternative livelihoods over forceful evictions. He expressed fears that, without a clear roadmap, the ban could lead to an increase in domestic violence, hunger, and public health risks.
“We are calling upon the government to first educate vendors about the new laws and provide alternative livelihoods before enforcing street vendor bans,” Arinaitwe said, warning that harsh measures could push desperate individuals toward crime.
John Mahesi, Town Clerk Katerera Town Council in rubirizi district
Arinaitwe further criticised Parliament for passing laws that he claims do not sufficiently consider the realities of the rural poor.
“Many vendors rely on street sales for school fees and livelihoods. If the government does not support them, this could lead to severe consequences,” he added.
He suggested that the government consider taxing vendors as a strategy for formalisation rather than imposing an outright ban.
The chairperson also highlighted a looming debt crisis for vendors who took bank loans or benefited from Parish Development Model (PDM) funds to start their businesses.
“Vendors who took loans from banks or received PDM support will struggle to repay if they are banned from street trading,” he noted.
Local Authorities Offer Alternative Spaces
In response, the leadership of Katerera Town Council maintains that the trade order is necessary for modernisation and public safety.
The Mayor of Katerera Town Council, Bejire Furujensi, said the council has already designated specific areas to accommodate displaced traders.
“We have allocated business spaces to relocate vendors, especially those selling food and chapatis, to beautify the town and improve trading conditions,” she said.
She emphasised that the goal is not to stop trade but to organise it.
“Vendors have been given alternative spaces to continue operating without disrupting the town’s cleanliness and order,” she added.
The Mayor noted that stakeholders—including LC I and LC II chairpersons, security agencies, and the business community—have been sensitised on the new directives, although some resistance remains.
“We will work with security operatives to enforce the trade order and maintain cleanliness,” she said.
Sanitation and Infrastructure Standards
Katerera Town Clerk John Mahesi reiterated that street trading often complicates public health management, citing unhygienic practices that can lead to food poisoning.
“The town requires proper maintenance. Vendors should comply to improve livelihoods. Otherwise, the law will be enforced because we can no longer allow street trading in Katerera Town,” Mahesi said.
He urged vendors to cooperate, noting that a clean and orderly environment benefits both traders and residents.
Mahesi also directed property owners to improve their buildings or face legal consequences.
“Landlords must upgrade their properties, including installing security lights, or face legal action if they fail to comply with town regulations,” he warned.
He further called on owners of undeveloped plots within the town council to begin construction or risk intervention by the authorities.
