Rukungiri Municipality Gives Street Vendors Two-Week Ultimatum to Vacate High Street

Rukungiri: Authorities in Rukungiri Municipality have issued a two-week ultimatum to street vendors operating along the town’s High Street to vacate the area or face enforcement action.

The directive was announced on April 1, by Town Clerk Isaiah Tumwesigye during a meeting with vendors held at the municipal premises. Tumwesigye stated that effective two weeks from March 2, 2026, no street vending will be permitted along High Street during daytime hours.

He clarified, however, that night vending will still be allowed, with vendors permitted to operate from 5:00pm onwards.

Tumwesigye emphasized that the move is part of broader efforts to restore order in the municipality. He noted that illegal structures along the main street will not be tolerated, and shop owners are also prohibited from displaying goods outside their premises.

According to the town clerk, the directive aligns with a nationwide push by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, following guidance from the Government of Uganda, aimed at removing vendors from roadsides to improve sanitation, reduce accidents, and enhance tax collection.

The Municipal Health Inspector, Eva Asiimwe, supported the decision, citing poor sanitation among vendors as a major concern. She urged those who will continue operating at night to maintain proper hygiene standards.

Asiimwe warned against improper waste disposal practices, including the use of buckets for sewage and dumping waste in drainage channels or on roads. She advised vendors to utilize public toilets to maintain cleanliness and safeguard public health.

However, the directive has drawn criticism from several vendors, including Sari Muhammad, Osbert Nasasira, and Esther Babura, who expressed dissatisfaction with the council’s decision. They argued that street vending is their primary source of livelihood, enabling them to afford basic needs such as food, shelter, and school fees.