By Ceasor Ivan Okello I 29.4.2026
The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Local Government, has lifted the temporary ban on the implementation of the Trade Order across the country, directing local authorities to resume enforcement measures aimed at restoring order in business operations.
Last week, Parliament of Uganda had imposed a temporary uspension on the implementation of an earlier directive issued by the Ministry of Local Government on March 10, 2026.
The directive, signed by the Permanent Secretary, had been addressed to all local governments and urban chief executive officers, instructing them to enforce trade order regulations.
The suspension followed widespread concerns raised by sections of trader associations and leaders of Pentecostal churches, who petitioned the government over what they described as harsh and unfair demolitions of churches, business structures, and kiosks located in non-gazetted areas.
Their complaints prompted parliamentary discussions, led by Speaker Anita Annet Among, resulting in the temporary halt of the enforcement exercise.
However, during its sitting on April 27, Cabinet resolved to lift the suspension and ordered Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs) and Town Clerks to continue implementing the Trade Order as previously directed.
In a letter dated April 28, the Minister of Local Government, Raphael Magezi, confirmed that Cabinet had agreed to restore enforcement measures to ensure business operations across the country are conducted in an orderly manner.
According to the minister, the government will establish a mechanism to receive and address concerns that may arise during the implementation process.
The directive specifically discourages trading along walkways, pavements, corridors, roadsides, and in non-gazetted areas, emphasizing the need to maintain public order and safety.
In Lira City, authorities recently faced resistance from traders while carrying out trade order operations, although enforcement efforts continued despite the opposition.
Following Parliament’s temporary suspension of the directive, hawkers and second-hand shoe sellers quickly returned to conducting business along major streets, corridors, and the bus park.
Sam Atul, the Mayor of Lira City, stated that the responsibility for implementing the Trade Order lies with the Office of the Town Clerk, which is legally mandated to enforce such regulations.
The recent operations have, however, sparked concern as they have left many young people jobless due to limited space in gazetted markets to accommodate all affected traders