MBARARA CITY, Uganda — Authorities in Mbarara City on Monday launched a major enforcement operation to evict street vendors and clear illegal structures in a move aimed at restoring order and cleanliness in the city’s central business district.
The operation, carried out by the city enforcement team with support from security operatives, disrupted business activities throughout the morning as vendors were removed from roadsides and pedestrian walkways.
City officials said the exercise began on Mbaguta Street and will extend to other major roads including Bananuka Drive, Buremba Road, Makhan Singh Street, and Victor Bwana Road. Authorities indicated that the crackdown will run for about a month to ensure traders comply with urban trade regulations.
During the operation, enforcement teams demolished temporary structures and illegal extensions that had encroached on public walkways. Shop owners were also instructed to keep their merchandise within the boundaries of their premises.
Many street vendors, who often operate without permanent stalls, were seen hurriedly leaving the streets with goods such as stockings, shoes, bags, and carpets as enforcement officers cleared the area. The operation also caused heavy traffic congestion in the city during the morning hours.
Justine Barekye, the City Clerk of Mbarara, defended the enforcement exercise, saying traders had been given adequate notice before the operation began.
“The grace period is over. We gave them a two-week ultimatum and made radio announcements so that everyone could be aware. We did not want to catch anyone by surprise,” Barekye said.
She added that the initiative is aimed at decongesting the city and directing traders to officially designated markets, many of which still have vacant stalls.
“Our markets are available. If you go to the Central Market, Nyamityobora, or Rwebikona, you will find empty stalls. Some people have also constructed commercial buildings and are looking for tenants. Traders should go and rent space like others are doing,” she explained.
City council enforcers have so far arrested four people during the operation, which is targeting street vendors, mobile kiosks, and unregulated loading and off-loading along major streets.
However, some traders expressed frustration over the exercise. Pius Tagaywa, also known as Smart, a jewelry vendor at Mbarara Central Market, said his merchandise was confiscated by enforcement officers despite having already paid the required council trading license.
Authorities say the ongoing operation is part of broader efforts to modernize and maintain order in Mbarara City, one of the fastest-growing cities in Uganda.
