By The Eye Media Uganda | April 28, 2026
KAMPALA – Government has resolved to reinstate the full implementation of the Trade Order across all urban centres, reversing an earlier decision by Parliament to suspend the directive.
Addressing the media on Tuesday, the Minister for Local Government, Raphael Magyezi, revealed that Cabinet, during its sitting held on April 27 at State House Entebbe, reviewed the parliamentary position and resolved to maintain the enforcement of the Trade Order in cities, municipalities, and town councils.
The development follows a recent announcement by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, David Bahati, who had communicated Parliament’s decision to suspend the implementation of the directive.
Magyezi noted that Cabinet’s decision was informed by the positive impact already registered in areas where the Trade Order had been enforced, citing improved organization and order within the business sector.
“Cabinet at its sitting held on April 27, 2026, resolved that the implementation of the Trade Order continues as planned,” Magyezi stated.
He emphasized that the renewed enforcement will be accompanied by intensified community sensitization campaigns aimed at helping the public understand the benefits of the policy.
To address concerns from traders, the Minister disclosed that a taskforce within the Ministry of Local Government has been instituted to engage stakeholders and receive complaints from affected business operators.
Government, he added, is also working on mechanisms to ensure that traders operating outside designated areas are allocated space within gazetted markets.
“Our teams are engaging both the private sector and local authorities to ensure that all traders operate from gazetted and organized spaces,” he said.
Magyezi further cautioned enforcement officers to implement the directive humanely, urging them to avoid brutality while dealing with traders.
In a related development, Cabinet has approved approximately UGX 56 billion to facilitate the conduct of Local Council I and II elections, as well as Women Council polls. The Minister said the Ministry is now awaiting the release of funds from the Ministry of Finance before announcing the election roadmap, adding that the Electoral Commission has already been alerted to prepare accordingly.
The reinstatement of the Trade Order signals Government’s firm stance on restoring order and structure within Uganda’s urban business environment.
