The government has reversed its earlier decision to suspend the enforcement of the Trade Order policy, reaffirming its commitment to restoring order in urban business environments.
On 10 March 2026, the Ministry of Local Government, through the Permanent Secretary, issued a circular directing all Chief Administrative Officers and Town Clerks of cities and municipalities to implement Trade Order guidelines aimed at streamlining business operations.
However, on 23 April 2026, the Minister of State for Industry, David Bahati, announced a temporary suspension of the enforcement exercise during a plenary sitting of Parliament. The move followed widespread complaints over violence and heavy-handed evictions of street vendors in several urban centres. Bahati was responding to concerns raised by Bukooli Central MP Solomon Silwany regarding the plight of the affected traders.
In a new development, a circular dated 28 April 2026 and issued by the Minister of Local Government, Raphael Magyezi, confirms that the earlier suspension has been rescinded. Magyezi stated that during a Cabinet meeting held on 27 April 2026, the government resolved to proceed with the implementation of the Trade Order policy.
Cabinet also approved additional measures to strengthen enforcement, including intensified community sensitisation campaigns and the formation of an inter-ministerial task force. The task force will work with key stakeholders such as religious institutions, vendors, and traders to ensure a smoother and more inclusive implementation process.
The government further pledged to address the concerns of traders who have not yet secured space in formal markets by reallocating them to designated trading areas. Local governments have also been encouraged to introduce weekly market days in convenient locations to accommodate more vendors.
Minister Magyezi urged the public to cooperate with local authorities, emphasising that no trader should return to unauthorized trading spaces. He noted that the initiative is intended to create towns that are organised, clean, healthy, and safe for all citizens.
CUE IN…..MAGYEZI ON DECISION ENG……//
