Government has initiated consultations with leaders of Born Again Pentecostal churches to address concerns arising from the implementation of the trade order in urban centres.
The meeting, held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, was convened by the Minister of Local Government, Hon. Raphael Magyezi, and brought together the joint leadership of Pentecostal churches under the National Fellowship of Born Again Pentecostal Churches of Uganda, led by Pastor Joseph Serwada.
The trade order, introduced through a circular issued in March, seeks to restore order in urban areas by enforcing compliance with physical planning regulations, improving sanitation, and enhancing safety and accessibility within business environments.
According to the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government, Mr Ben Kumumanya, the exercise has already registered measurable progress. He cited increased occupancy of gazetted markets in urban centres such as Mbale, Hoima, Nyendo and Kasese, as well as reduced road congestion, improved traffic flow, restored drainage systems and better sanitation standards.
“We must safeguard the gains registered so far,” Mr Kumumanya noted.
However, Pentecostal leaders raised concerns regarding the impact of enforcement on places of worship. They reported instances where some churches were affected despite operating outside restricted areas such as road reserves and wetlands. Concerns were also raised about inconsistencies in enforcement and the conduct of some field officers.
In response, government acknowledged the concerns and committed to reviewing implementation mechanisms to ensure fairness, clarity and uniformity across all local governments.
“Places of worship that are operating within the law should not be adversely affected,” Hon. Magyezi said. “We are strengthening the communication and application of standard operating procedures to ensure that enforcement is consistent and well understood.”
The meeting resolved to strengthen enforcement guidelines, provide additional time for consultations and public sensitisation, and convene a follow-up engagement after broader stakeholder consultations.
The meeting was attended by key government officials, including the Minister for the Presidency, Hon. Milly Babalanda; the State Minister for Industry, Hon. David Bahati; the State Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development (PWDs), Hon. Hellen Asamo; and the State Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development (Culture), Hon. Peace Mutuzo.
The engagement underscores government’s commitment to inclusive dialogue as it implements reforms aimed at improving order and service delivery in urban centres.
