news 23 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Kabale Leaders Push for Dialogue Amid Street Vendor Eviction Tensions
Leaders in Kabale Municipality are urging stakeholder talks before evicting street vendors by March 28, stressing the need for alternative trading spots to protect livelihoods. While some support the move for better order, others warn it could harm poverty alleviation efforts. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kabale-town-faces-tension-over-street-vendor-eviction--5400222
Local authorities in Kabale Municipality are calling for immediate discussions among stakeholders prior to a looming eviction of street vendors and hawkers. The push comes after a directive from town clerk Jamilu Kasajja, mandating vendors to clear streets by March 28 or face enforcement action.
Mayor Sentaro Byamugisha insists the process must pause until suitable relocation areas are secured. “Evicting without alternatives is unfair to those barely making ends meet,” he stated, noting that some vendors rely on government programs like the Parish Development Model.
He advocates for joint consultations with traders, leaders, and officials to manage the transition smoothly. Division chairpersons from Northern and Southern areas, Isaac Mucunguzi Rushoga and Maclean Kamusiime Batware, criticized the tight deadline as unprepared and risky for vulnerable traders.
In contrast, Central Division’s Sam Arinaitwe backs the eviction to promote order and support taxed market operators, suggesting market expansions. Councillor Leopold Twesigye blamed lax by-law enforcement for the vendor influx on streets.
The situation underscores the conflict between urban regulation and informal sector survival in Uganda.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)