BREAKING: Kampala Minister Orders Illegal Street Vendors, Taxis and Boda Bodas Off City Streets
KAMPALA, Uganda — The Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, has ordered all illegal street vendors, taxi drivers and boda boda riders operating outside gazetted stages to immediately vacate the streets of Kampala.
The minister said the directive is intended to restore order, ease traffic congestion, and improve public safety in the city. She warned that non-compliant individuals will be arrested and prosecuted.
Speaking on Thursday, February 5, 2026, Kabanda stressed that only vendors and transport operators operating from officially designated areas will be allowed to continue business. Enforcement operations are expected to begin immediately, led by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) in coordination with security agencies.
The order has triggered mixed reactions among traders and transport operators, many of whom depend on street operations for daily income.
Meanwhile, Vendors and Hawkers Association chairperson Kizito Kenneth opposed the directive, warning that arrests could hurt families, particularly children whose school attendance may be affected.
KCCA is yet to issue details on designated operating zones and enforcement timelines as the directive takes effect.
