Government Tightens Trade Order Enforcement as Hon. Raphael Magyezi Calls for Nationwide Compliance

The Government of Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to restoring order in urban and trading centers across the country, following a Cabinet resolution to continue enforcing the Trade Order directive first issued in March this year.

In a press release dated April 28, 2026, the Minister of Local Government, Hon. Raphael Magyezi, emphasized the importance of full compliance with the Trade Order guidelines by all stakeholders, particularly traders and local authorities.

The directive originates from a circular issued on March 10, 2026, by the Ministry of Local Government through the Permanent Secretary, instructing all Chief Administrative Officers, Town Clerks of cities, and municipalities to implement measures aimed at restoring order in business environments.

Restoring Order and Sanity in Urban Trade*

According to the Minister, the Trade Order guidelines are intended to create a more organized, clean, and safe trading environment. Key among the measures is the relocation of traders operating in unauthorized spaces such as streets, walkways, pavements, verandas, sanitary lanes, and backstreets into formally designated markets and trading zones.

The government also directed the removal of outdated campaign posters from public spaces following the conclusion of the election period, as part of broader efforts to improve urban cleanliness and aesthetics.

Public Health and Sanitation Measures

The guidelines place strong emphasis on public health, particularly in food handling. Local governments have been instructed to prohibit the preparation and sale of food—including fruits—on sewer lines and drainage channels. In addition, authorities are required to enforce regular cleaning of markets, especially after market days, and to ensure proper waste management systems are in place.

Street lighting and general sanitation improvements are also part of the strategy to enhance safety and hygiene in trading areas.

Strengthening Law Enforcement and Regulation

To ensure compliance, the Ministry is calling for stricter enforcement of existing laws governing trade. All businesses are required to be licensed and regulated in accordance with the Trade (Licensing) Act, Cap 101.

Furthermore, local governments must ensure that all development projects are approved in line with the Building Control Act and the Physical Planning Act to prevent disorderly urban expansion.

The directive also addresses the need to streamline public transport operations, which often intersect with informal trading activities in congested urban areas.

Cabinet Endorses Continued Implementation

During the Cabinet meeting held on April 27, 2026, the government resolved that the implementation of the Trade Order should proceed as planned. To strengthen execution, several additional measures have been introduced.

These include intensified community sensitization campaigns to ensure public understanding and cooperation, as well as the establishment of an inter-ministerial task force. This task force will work closely with key stakeholders, including religious institutions, vendors, and trader associations, to facilitate smoother implementation.

Addressing Trader Concerns

Recognizing the challenges faced by traders who have yet to secure space in formal markets, the government has committed to identifying alternative trading areas.

Local governments are also being encouraged to introduce and operationalize weekly market days in accessible locations to accommodate more traders.

“We shall provide more detailed guidelines to address emerging issues,” the Minister noted, adding that feedback from the public will be critical in refining the process. A dedicated contact line (0414 258100) has been provided for stakeholders to share concerns and suggestions.

Call for Cooperation

Hon. Magyezi urged all Ugandans to support the initiative, stressing that no trader should return to unauthorized trading spaces. He underscored that the success of the Trade Order depends on collective responsibility and adherence to the established guidelines.

“Let us work together to build towns and localities that are organized, clean, healthy, and safe for all of us,” he stated.

The Trade Order initiative is part of a broader government agenda to modernize urban management, improve public health standards, and create a more structured and sustainable business environment across Uganda.