Business 24 August 2026 Nile Post
FUTA Warns KCCA Over Confiscation of Trader Property
The Federation of Uganda Traders Associations (FUTA) has issued a stern warning to the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) regarding the confiscation of goods displayed by traders outside their shops in arcades. FUTA asserts that this practice is severely impacting businesses and exacerbating traders' financial losses. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/366251/futa-warns-kcca-over-confiscation-of-traders-property-in-kampala-arcades
The Federation of Uganda Traders Associations (FUTA) is raising serious concerns over the Kampala Capital City Authority’s (KCCA) enforcement activities, specifically targeting merchandise displayed outside shops in Kampala’s arcades. FUTA President, John Kabanda, stated that traders have reported their property being seized by KCCA enforcement officers under the guise of enforcing the Trade Order.
Kabanda, speaking on Salam TV, highlighted a critical issue: the confiscated goods are frequently not returned to their rightful owners. This practice, he argued, is not only crippling businesses but also worsening the financial strain on traders, many of whom are still recovering from previous losses.
The Trade Order, which aims to formalize commercial activities in urban centers, prohibits street vending and roadside operations to clear walkways and improve urban hygiene. It mandates that traders operate within designated markets and spaces. However, FUTA contends that KCCA’s enforcement methods are undermining traders’ livelihoods.
“FUTA is calling upon KCCA to do what the Trade Order states and stop making people’s businesses collapse because the property they take is not returned to the owners,” Kabanda urged. He indicated that if KCCA, under Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki, does not address these grievances, traders may resort to demonstrations.
This situation arises months after traders suffered significant losses due to floods that damaged property stored in arcades on October 31, 2025. According to Kabanda, affected traders have yet to receive any compensation. While some were directed to the Office of the Prime Minister regarding relief funds, the lack of clear resolution is creating palpable tension.
FUTA is advocating for a balanced approach, where KCCA enforces regulations while simultaneously ensuring that traders’ businesses and livelihoods are protected, and that confiscated goods are properly accounted for and returned where appropriate.
Source: Nile Post