Apac Municipality Evicts Tenants from Unsafe Buildings

Apac Municipality authorities have initiated an operation to close down and evacuate tenants from buildings in a severe state of disrepair. The crackdown, which began on August 27, 2026, saw three shops in a commercial building along Akokoro Road in Akere Division shut down.

The municipality’s information officer, Moses Edwok, stated that the operation is intended to safeguard residents. “We have already identified these buildings, and we shall ensure that the occupants are evacuated,” he said, emphasizing that landlords were previously notified of the deteriorating conditions.

Edwok further explained that the buildings pose a significant risk, with issues ranging from falling ceiling boards and leaking roofs to cracked walls. Despite these hazards, many landlords have neglected necessary renovations.

Traders affected by the closures have expressed distress, highlighting the immediate economic impact on their livelihoods. Julius Luhimbazi, an affected tenant, urged the municipality to address landlords directly. “My business is closed, and now I am not working, yet I still have to pay rent, pay my workers, and feed my family,” he lamented.

Moses Otim, another trader, voiced concerns about providing for his large family. “I have a family of more than ten members, and it is this shop where I always get money to feed them. Now that my business premises are closed, I don’t know how we are going to eat,” he stated.

Tenants like Dorcus Ajwang reported persistent neglect from landlords, with one building remaining unpainted and in need of floor repairs since 2019.

The operation aligns with the Uganda Building Control Act, which empowers building committees to issue notices for demolition or remedial action on buildings showing signs of disrepair.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/traders-stranded-as-apac-municipality-closes-rundown-buildings-5578886