Minister Balaam Orders Closure of Yalelo Fish Shop in Busia Amidst Trader Complaints

Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahara, has intervened in a trade dispute in Busia town, ordering the closure of the Yalelo fish shop.

The directive came after numerous complaints from local fish traders who accused Yalelo of operating illegally from the Busia Customs premises for approximately three years, areas not designated for fish trading.

Traders further alleged that Yalelo lacked a required municipal council trading license. They implored the minister to mandate all fish businesses, including Yalelo, to operate exclusively from the main Busia market.

Busia Deputy Town Clerk John Wafuba confirmed that the municipal council had previously resolved to suspend Yalelo’s operations, contingent on its relocation to the main market. Wafuba noted that the council had previously sealed the shop, but its management allegedly broke the seal and resumed operations.

Addressing the gathered traders, Minister Barugahara instructed Yalelo to halt all fish sales until further notice. He also urged the company to sell off its existing stock before ceasing operations.

Local fishmongers, such as Nassar Mulumba, claimed Yalelo’s presence at the customs premises had significantly harmed their businesses in the main market. They questioned how businesses allegedly evading municipal taxes and revenue could operate freely while market vendors faced monthly fees.

Kenyatta Wanjala, chairperson of the Busia Fish Vendors Association, stated that traders desired either Yalelo’s complete departure from Busia or a relocation to the main market. Wanjala warned that traders might cease paying municipal revenue if authorities permitted businesses to operate outside the designated market area.

Another vendor, Hassan Sekyette, highlighted that Yalelo’s location made it difficult for Kenyan clients to reach the main market, resulting in substantial losses for local traders.

Betty Ofuro Nekesa, a fish vendor, appealed for Yalelo’s permanent closure in Busia to enable local businesses to recover. An anonymous Yalelo employee stated the company was prepared to comply with all municipal council requirements but was not ready to close, citing international clientele.

Source: https://observer.ug/news/minister-balaam-closes-yalelo-fish-shop-in-busia