Lord Mayor Demands Compensation for Traders' Stalls in Kampala Markets

Lord Mayor Ronald Balimwezo has strongly advocated for the compensation of traders who have financially contributed to the construction of market stalls. These markets, including prominent ones like St. Balikuddembe (Owino), Nakawa, Bugolobi, and Nakasero, are reportedly being eyed for government acquisition.

Balimwezo highlighted that while the land belongs to the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), many traders have invested their own funds in developing stalls. He likened their situation to that of landlords, stating that it’s unjust to remove them without proper recompense.

“They spent money on constructing some of these stalls, and therefore they must be compensated if government wants to take over the markets,” Balimwezo asserted during a recent meeting between KCCA officials and traders’ representatives. He called on the government to allocate specific funds in the national budget for this purpose.

KCCA Executive Director, Sharifah Buzeki, indicated that the Central Executive Committee (CEC) will deliberate on the ownership of these stalls before any definitive action is taken. KCCA is also preparing to conduct elections in markets where leadership structures are unresolved, with election sensitization to be postponed to allow for broader understanding among traders.

Traders from Nakasero Market raised concerns about previous leadership blocking access to KCCA officials and called for transparency in revenue collection and utility charges. Representatives from Owino Market voiced uncertainties regarding land ownership and questioned the management of electricity bills and revenue-generating facilities.

Furthermore, traders from Owino Market requested the establishment of a daycare facility and a review of the flood victim compensation list, noting that many affected traders were excluded.