The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has assured Parliament that it has no plans to demolish St. Balikuddembe Market, commonly known as Owino Market, following concerns raised by legislators over its future.
KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki told the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) that the authority is focused on upgrading the ageing market rather than tearing it down.
“We intend to improve the market because it is ageing; our strategic plans do not include demolishing Owino as has been claimed,” Buzeki said.
She said KCCA has engaged traders and assured them that they will be involved in redevelopment plans if funding is secured.
“We have engaged traders and informed them that if funding for redevelopment is secured, they will be involved, including in decisions on design and structure,” she added.
Buzeki noted that several sections of the 55-year-old market require urgent repairs, particularly areas affected by leakages.
“There are many sections that need attention. The poultry section is leaking, the vegetable section, among others, also requires improvement. For now, we can undertake immediate repairs that cannot wait for the larger redevelopment,” she said.
The Executive Director also revealed that KCCA has taken over ownership of the market land from the St. Balikuddembe Market Stalls, Space and Lock-ups Shop Owners Association (SSLOA).
Lawmakers raised concerns following media reports suggesting parts of the market could be demolished, which they said had caused anxiety among traders.
Legislator Richard Sebamala questioned whether there were plans to hand the market to private developers.
“Owino traders are now anxious that the market could eventually be handed over to private developers, similar to what happened with Nakivubo Channel. Is there any plan in your strategy to remove Owino Market?” Sebamala asked.
Committee Chairperson Medard Sseggona said the committee had received multiple complaints from traders seeking clarity.
“As an institution responsible for safeguarding public interest, we are raising valid concerns about land ownership. If you took over the land, did you compensate the former tenant? If so, provide evidence,” Sseggona said.
Another legislator, Yusuf Nsibambi, noted that disputes over the market land date back years, citing management concerns under the former operator.
KCCA is expected to provide documentation to Parliament confirming ownership of the land and detailing the process followed in its acquisition.
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