Traders representing various associations have directed a plea to the State House Investors Protection Unit, requesting an audience with President Yoweri Museveni to address their concerns. Led by John Kabanda, president of the Federation of Uganda Traders Associations (FOTA), the traders expressed dismay over the failure of previous directives issued by the President to be implemented by relevant government officials.
During a meeting with Col. Edith Nakalema, the head of the State House Investors Protection Unit, Kabanda highlighted several issues, including the influx of foreign investors involved in both retail and wholesale trade. These investors, the traders claimed, were importing goods from factories in China instead of supporting local manufacturing, as mandated by their trading licenses. Additionally, some foreign investors were reportedly engaging in petty trading and retail activities, further complicating the market landscape.
In a statement signed by Kabanda, the traders emphasized the importance of safeguarding the nation’s interests and ensuring that foreign investments positively contribute to the economy. They sought intervention to address the challenges posed by the influx of foreign traders and the alleged connivance between arcade owners and Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) officials to evade taxes.
Godfrey Katongole, chairman of the Kampala Arcade Traders‘ Association, raised concerns about landlords issuing forged receipts to tenants, resulting in under-declared rental income and tax evasion. Traders highlighted instances where URA officials were aware of these practices but failed to take action against the perpetrators, alleging harassment and threats against those who spoke out.
Traders also decried landlords’ exploitation of electricity billing, with some reportedly overbilling tenants using privately-owned meters. Furthermore, they criticized the selective enforcement of city bylaws, where foreign hawkers were allowed to operate freely while local traders faced harassment from law enforcement.
In response, Col. Nakalema pledged to convene a follow-up meeting on March 12, 2024, involving relevant government agencies such as URA and the trade ministry. She emphasized the unit’s commitment to address concerns raised by local investors, acknowledging their role in promoting domestic investment and economic growth.
Dr. Ezra Muhumuza, executive director of the Uganda Manufacturers Association, emphasized the need for a forum to address traders’ queries promptly. Meanwhile, URA’s public relations officer, Ibrahim Bbosa, assured that the agency would investigate the traders’ allegations thoroughly and respond accordingly during the upcoming meeting.
