The Federation of Uganda Traders Associations (FUTA) has called for an immediate suspension of the ongoing eviction of street vendors and traders operating in unauthorized spaces, warning that the exercise risks deepening economic hardship among low-income earners.
Speaking during a leadership meeting at Tropic Inn Hotel, FUTA President John Kabanda urged Chief Administrative Officers and Town Clerks in Kalungu, Kyotera, and Masaka City to halt enforcement operations until viable alternative workspaces are secured.
Kabanda said many small-scale traders have been evicted abruptly, without adequate notice or relocation plans, leaving them exposed and vulnerable.
He criticized what he described as heavy-handed enforcement tactics, which he said have resulted in the destruction of merchandise belonging to already struggling families.
“We are currently engaging private landlords and investors to secure vacant spaces where these traders can be resettled on a more permanent basis,” Kabanda said. “We appeal to the authorities to temporarily suspend the evictions as we conclude these discussions.”
FUTA’s Masaka sub-region coordinator, Hood Badru Kabamba, noted that progress has already been made in some areas. In Kyotera and Lukaya Town Council, landlords have reportedly offered space for displaced vendors.
However, he said, finding suitable locations within Masaka City remains a challenge, with negotiations still ongoing.
Kabamba also raised concern over alleged night-time enforcement operations, accusing authorities of demolishing kiosks and containers under the cover of darkness, resulting in significant losses for traders.
The appeal comes as the eviction deadline issued by Masaka City Town Clerk, Christopher Kaweesa, expired on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
Tension is rising among traders after enforcement teams marked kiosks, mobile money booths, and spare parts stalls with “X” signs, an indication of imminent demolition.
Many affected traders, particularly those operating small containers, say they have nowhere else to go, raising fears of increased unemployment and hardship if the evictions proceed without a clear resettlement plan.
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