The Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, Minsa Kabanda, has issued a strong warning against the resurgence of illegal street vending and disorderly trade practices in Kampala.
In a firm statement released amid ongoing city enforcement operations, Kabanda said authorities would take decisive action against individuals who attempt to return to unauthorised trading spaces.
“Any attempt to return to illegal street vending, encroachment, or disorderly trade practices will be dealt with decisively,” she said.
The remarks come as the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) continues its operations to decongest the central business district.
The exercise has seen the removal of roadside vendors and informal traders from major streets, in a move officials say is aimed at restoring order, improving sanitation, and easing traffic congestion.
KCCA officials argue that the crackdown is part of a broader strategy to modernise the city and ensure that business activities are conducted within designated and regulated spaces.
Authorities have also urged affected traders to relocate to gazetted markets, insisting that alternative trading areas are available.
However, the enforcement campaign has drawn mixed reactions, particularly from informal traders who rely on street vending as their primary source of income.
Some vendors have expressed concern over limited space in markets and the high cost of operating within formal structures.
Despite the concerns, Kabanda maintained that the government will not reverse its position, emphasising that maintaining order in the city remains a top priority.
