Uganda Suspends Trade Order Crackdown After Public Outcry, Govt Promises Consultative Approach

Responding to these concerns, Bahati confirmed that the government has halted further evictions in areas yet to be affected, pending broader consultations.

The Ugandan government has temporarily suspended the ongoing nationwide enforcement of trade order measures following mounting pressure from lawmakers, traders, and religious leaders over the disruptive impact of evictions on livelihoods.

The announcement was made by the Minister of State for Trade, Cooperatives and Industry (Industry), Hon. David Bahati, during a plenary sitting of Parliament on April 24, signaling a shift toward a more consultative and humane approach to urban regulation.

Policy Pause Amid Rising Tensions

The enforcement drive, initiated in February 2026 by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) alongside local governments, targeted roadside vendors and illegal kiosks in a bid to restore urban order and decongest public spaces. While the initiative aimed to improve city planning and compliance with regulations, it quickly triggered widespread backlash.

Thousands of informal traders—many dependent on daily earnings—were affected, sparking protests and appeals from Members of Parliament who warned of severe socio-economic consequences.

Responding to these concerns, Bahati confirmed that the government has halted further evictions in areas yet to be affected, pending broader consultations.

"We are engaging stakeholders to find a better and more balanced approach. A final meeting will be held at the end of June, and by early July, we expect to roll out a refined framework," Bahati told Parliament.

Consultations to Shape New Framework

The Minister acknowledged missteps in the implementation process, including reports of insensitive conduct during evictions. He revealed that the government had issued apologies to religious leaders after enforcement teams allegedly made inappropriate remarks during operations.

The revised strategy, expected in July, will incorporate feedback from traders, religious institutions, local authorities, and policymakers to ensure that future enforcement aligns with both legal requirements and social realities.

However, Bahati clarified that the suspension does not reverse actions already taken. "Where evictions have already occurred, the status quo remains. The suspension applies only to areas where enforcement had not yet reached," he added.

Lawmakers Demand Immediate Relief and Accountability

Parliamentarians across the political spectrum welcomed the suspension but called for urgent measures to prevent continued evictions at the local level.

Hon. Solomon Silwanyi (NRM, Bukooli County Central), who first raised the issue, urged the Ministry to formally communicate the suspension to all local governments.

"Evictions are still ongoing in some areas despite the announcement. A clear directive must be issued to town councils to halt these actions immediately," Silwanyi said.

Speaker of Parliament Anita Among echoed concerns over the manner in which the crackdown was executed, cautioning against heavy-handed enforcement.

"Restoring trade order is necessary, but it must not be done through force or intimidation. Government should adopt a progressive approach—educate traders, respect their dignity, and provide alternative spaces such as markets for relocation," she stated.

Calls for a 'Human Face' in Policy Implementation

Opposition voices also pressed the government to address the damage already caused. Kira Municipality MP Hon. Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda questioned the lack of recovery mechanisms for affected traders.

"What happens to the lives and businesses already destroyed? Future interventions must be implemented with a human face," he said.

Similarly, Hon. Jonathan Odur (Erute County South) welcomed the decision to suspend the exercise but stressed the importance of prior consultation in policymaking.

"Orderliness is important, but so is inclusion. Decisions that affect people's livelihoods must be preceded by meaningful engagement," Odur noted.

Balancing Urban Order and Economic Survival

The suspension highlights the ongoing challenge faced by governments in rapidly urbanizing economies—balancing the need for structured, regulated cities with the realities of informal sector dependence.

Uganda's informal economy accounts for a significant share of employment, with street vending serving as a primary income source for many urban households. Experts note that abrupt enforcement actions, without viable alternatives, risk exacerbating poverty and inequality.

As consultations continue, the government faces the task of designing a policy that ensures urban order while safeguarding livelihoods—potentially through designated vending zones, expanded market infrastructure, and phased compliance strategies.

A Critical Moment for Inclusive Urban Policy

The coming months will be crucial in shaping Uganda's approach to urban trade regulation. With a revised framework expected by July 2026, stakeholders will be watching closely to see whether the government can strike a sustainable balance between enforcement and empathy.