The Ministry of Local Government has directed all Chief Administrative Officers and Town Clerks in cities and municipalities to take decisive action in restoring trade order in urban centers across the country.
In a circular dated 10th March 2026 issued by Ben Kumumanya, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, officials are reminded that trade activities are governed by the Trade (Licensing) Act, Cap 101, which mandates that any person selling goods or services must possess a valid trading license and operate only from designated areas.
The framework is intended to organize commerce, ensure public safety, and enforce licensing compliance within local governments.
However, Kumumanya notes that over the years, urban areas have seen a surge in illegal street vending and hawking, largely due to an influx of people seeking employment without sufficient capital for formal businesses.
“These activities have resulted in unplanned settlements, mushrooming structures, and the occupation of public spaces, affecting mobility and the operations of formal businesses in markets and designated shops”. He said.
To address these challenges, the Ministry has outlined several key directives:
- Removal of all campaign posters displayed within local government areas.
- Regular cleaning of marketplaces after every market day and daily markets in the evenings.
- Strengthening law enforcement to maintain public order.
- Strict enforcement of laws, policies, and guidelines related to trade.
- Public education and awareness programs to inform communities of the regulations.
- Upgrading trading spaces, including cleaning, painting buildings, paving frontages, providing security lighting, and dustbins.
- Streamlining public transport operations to complement orderly trade.
- Development and implementation of tailored trade order strategies in each local government.
- Consultation with relevant ministries and departments on existing policies and regulatory frameworks.
- Ongoing communication with the Ministry for support as needed.
Kumumanya emphasized that disorganized trading adversely affects formal businesses and urban development, underscoring the need for coordinated action to restore order.
