The government has confirmed that the enforcement of the national trade order will proceed despite recent reports of a potential suspension.
Minister of Local Government Raphael Magyezi clarified the government's stance during a press briefing at the Uganda Media Centre on Tuesday. He announced that Cabinet resolved to continue the implementation as originally planned. The executive branch aims to strengthen the rollout of these guidelines to ensure urban sanity.
The trade order directive first appeared on March 10, 2026. It mandates all local governments to restore order within urban centers. Authorities must relocate traders from streets, pavements, and verandas into formal, designated markets.
Minister Magyezi emphasized the need for organized and safe trading environments. "Cabinet resolved that the implementation of the trade order should proceed as planned," he stated. He urged the public to cooperate with local authorities during this transition.
The directive targets several areas of urban mismanagement beyond street vending. Officials must remove campaign posters and enforce strict food handling regulations. The guidelines specifically prohibit the preparation or sale of food along drainage channels and sewer lines.
Local governments must also prioritize the regular cleaning of markets and improve waste management systems. The order requires authorities to enhance street lighting for better security. All businesses must obtain valid licenses in accordance with the Trade Licensing Act.
The Ministry of Local Government plans to increase community sensitization efforts to ease the transition. An inter-ministerial task force will now work with stakeholders to identify additional spaces for vendors. Local leaders are encouraged to establish structured weekly market days in convenient locations.
Development approvals must now strictly comply with the Building Control Act and the Physical Planning Act. This alignment supports orderly urban growth and streamlines public transport operations. The government maintains that these measures will create cleaner and safer towns for all citizens.
