Jinja Taxi Operators at Kiyembe Stage Get 21-Day Eviction Notice

Taxi operators operating from Jinja City’s well-known Kiyembe Stage have been issued a 21-day ultimatum to move to the Jinja Main Taxi Park. This decision is part of a broader push by the city authorities to enforce trade order regulations.

The directive, confirmed by Jinja Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Salim Kumakech, sets August 13, 2026, as the deadline, after which operations at the Clive Road West stage will be forbidden.

Kiyembe Stage, also referred to as Kampala Stage, has been a primary transport hub connecting Jinja and Kampala for over four decades. Reports suggest it was established by Luwero Bush War veterans as an income-generating venture.

However, the planned relocation has met significant resistance from the affected taxi operators. They argue that the main taxi park is already overcrowded and cannot accommodate the current number of vehicles from Kiyembe and other unauthorized stages.

Led by their chairman, Sulaiman Kalani, the operators have voiced concerns about increased congestion and a potential decrease in earnings. Over 30 operators protested at the RCC’s office, appealing for a review of the order.

Drivers like Yusuf Mwanje emphasized that Kiyembe Stage is their sole source of livelihood, pleading with the government to consider their situation. Pastor Juma Sebastian, a guide at the stage, also urged authorities to address the operators’ concerns, highlighting their past support for government initiatives.

Operators are also questioning why similar stages in other cities, like Kampala, remain operational while those in Jinja are being targeted.

RCC Kumakech urged compliance, stating the move is part of a presidential directive and not targeted at any specific group. He assured that efforts are being made to address security and logistical challenges, including facilitating a memorandum of understanding between drivers and taxi park management for a smooth transition.

Despite assurances, tensions persist as operators seek dialogue and viable solutions to safeguard their livelihoods, while authorities maintain the relocation is crucial for streamlining urban transport and reducing congestion. The deadline for relocation is August 14, 2026, with operations at Kiyembe Stage to cease thereafter.

Source: Nile Post