KAMPALA, Uganda- The government has finalized plans to enforce the eviction and demolition of kiosks, roadside markets, and other makeshift structures along highways and major national roads, citing their illegal presence and growing safety risks.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, during an exclusive interview where he addressed concerns about the current status of the national highway transportation master plan.
Gen. Wamala said discussions with key stakeholders in the road sector have been concluded and consensus reached to immediately enforce the eviction or demolition of all unauthorized kiosks and roadside markets operating along highways and major road networks, in accordance with the Road Safety Act regulations.
He explained that enforcement operations had been temporarily suspended during the festive season to allow vendors an opportunity to earn income. However, authorities have since observed a sharp increase in the number of roadside kiosks and informal markets, which he described as both a safety and security concern.
“The number of these structures has grown significantly, creating serious risks for both traders and road users,” the minister said.
He urged operators of such businesses to voluntarily vacate the road reserves before enforcement begins.
“Anyone who cares to listen should get off the road network before the full force of government catches up with them,” he warned.
According to the minister, the government has a constitutional mandate to enforce laws that protect both those operating near highways and the traveling public.
He cited Nabbingo Township along the Kampala–Masaka Highway as an example, where hundreds of illegal kiosks have encroached on the road reserve. He further noted that the stretch toward Lwera near Masaka is lined with roadside fish and gonja markets that obstruct traffic flow.
“Imagine if a trailer carrying heavy cargo lost control and crashed into those kiosks. The consequences would be devastating, and government would be blamed for negligence,” he said.
Gen. Wamala revealed that a nationwide eviction exercise will soon be launched without further notice. The operation will involve clearing road reserves, impounding materials, demolishing illegal structures, and restoring order and discipline along major highways.
He also warned taxi operators, particularly those operating along the Northern Bypass who park near flyovers, to vacate immediately or face impoundment and prosecution. He described such parking practices as disruptive and an obstruction to smooth traffic flow.
