By Vicent Emong
Leaders in have granted vendors operating in containers along road reserves an additional seven days to voluntarily relocate, as authorities intensify efforts to restore order and improve urban planning.
The extension follows a stakeholder engagement process led by municipal authorities, aimed at ensuring a smooth and peaceful transition for traders and transport operators affected by the directive.
According to , the Principal Executive Engineer at Kumi Municipality, the process has been gradual and consultative, with authorities prioritizing dialogue before enforcement.
❝ “We started by sensitizing stakeholders and engaging them. We are currently holding meetings to inform them how the implementation will be carried out.” ❞
— Henry Matega
Matega noted that some vendors, along with taxi and bus operators, have already complied by relocating to the designated taxi park, signaling progress in the implementation process.
❝ “Many taxis and buses have already shifted to the existing taxi park and are operating from there.” ❞
— Henry Matega
However, a number of traders operating in containers on road reserves, as well as boda boda riders, are yet to comply with the directive.
Initially, all vendors had been required to vacate the road reserves by March 23. Following appeals from stakeholders, the municipality extended the deadline, with enforcement now set to begin on March 30.
❝ “Stakeholders requested for one more week. This means that effective March 30, enforcement will begin.” ❞
— Henry Matega
He emphasized that authorities are committed to a non-violent process, encouraging voluntary compliance among traders.
❝ “We want a smooth transition without violence. Traders should remove their containers voluntarily without the need for force.” ❞
— Henry Matega
Matega further revealed that there are still vacant spaces in markets and taxi parks, urging traders to take advantage of the available infrastructure.
❝ “Some shops remain vacant. Traders should engage landlords and occupy these spaces. There are also available spaces in markets and parks that need to be utilized.” ❞
— Henry Matega
To address concerns over space constraints, the municipality is working with private partners, including the Church of Uganda and other landowners, to secure additional areas for business operations.
Meanwhile, transport operators have raised concerns about the conditions at the taxi park, particularly during night hours. Anwar, a leader in the transport sector, said while operators comply during the day, challenges such as poor lighting, insecurity, and inadequate sanitation make night operations difficult.
❝ “We operate from the park during the day, but at night it becomes risky due to poor lighting, insecurity, and limited sanitation facilities.” ❞
— Anwar
Boda boda leaders have also called for a more structured approach. , Vice Chairperson of boda boda riders in the municipality, urged authorities to establish designated stages rather than merging riders into central vehicle parks.
❝ “Boda bodas cannot operate effectively from one central park. We need designated stages because we serve different locations.” ❞
— Lubeni Opolot
Kumi Municipality Mayor, , who convened the stakeholders’ meeting alongside the district security team, called for a humane enforcement process that safeguards livelihoods.
❝ “The eviction exercise must be conducted in a manner that does not negatively affect the livelihoods of traders.” ❞
— Richard Ochom
Authorities remain optimistic that with continued engagement and cooperation, traders will comply with the directive and relocate peacefully, paving the way for improved order and service delivery within Kumi Municipality.
