MBARARA, Uganda — Street vendors operating within the Central Business District (CBD) of Mbarara have been ordered to vacate immediately following a directive issued by the Mbarara City Council.
In a notice dated February 24, 2026, the City Town Clerk, Justine Barekye, directed all vendors conducting business along streets in the CBD to relocate to gazetted markets established by the city authorities.
The notice, issued in Runyankore under the heading “Ekirango” (Notice), states that street trading within the city centre is prohibited and that enforcement action will be taken against individuals who fail to comply. City authorities emphasized that all commercial activities must be carried out in designated and legally recognized areas.
The directive also targets taxi operators who have been loading and parking passengers in unauthorized locations. Operators around Shell Ankole Service Station and Independence Park have been instructed to cease operations in those areas and relocate to the official taxi park.
According to the council, the move is aimed at restoring order, improving traffic flow, and ensuring compliance with city regulations governing trade and public transport operations within the CBD.
Authorities have warned that failure to adhere to the directive will result in enforcement measures in line with existing city bylaws, signaling a renewed push to streamline urban management and maintain order in Mbarara’s commercial hub.
