Mityana Leaders Sensitise Traders as Shs34.9bn UCMID Programme Takes Shape

Leaders in Mityana Municipality have intensified sensitisation efforts among traders ahead of the implementation of the Uganda Cities and Municipalities Infrastructure Development (UCMID) Programme, aimed at ensuring smooth execution of the project with minimal disruption to businesses.

The ongoing engagement is intended to help traders understand the scope of the project, the relocation process and the long-term benefits expected from the planned infrastructure improvements.

Speaking during the sensitisation exercise, Mityana Municipality Mayor Faustin Mukambwe Lukonge said the municipality had extended the relocation period to give traders adequate time to prepare before vacating areas earmarked for construction.

“Our objective is to ensure that every trader clearly understands the implementation process and has sufficient time to relocate in an orderly manner. We do not want anyone to be unfairly affected by this project,” Mukambwe said.

The mayor explained that the extension would allow business owners to make necessary arrangements, minimise interruptions to their livelihoods and enable the municipality to complete the required preparations for project implementation.

“We have given ourselves a period of three months to prepare for the relocation of traders so that no one is affected. This period will also allow us to complete procurement processes and ensure better planning,” Mukambwe noted.

He urged traders to cooperate with municipal authorities throughout the exercise, saying the UCMID Programme is expected to transform Mityana’s urban infrastructure, improve the business environment and enhance service delivery.

“The infrastructure improvements under UCMID are meant to benefit the entire municipality. With cooperation and proper planning, both traders and residents will enjoy better roads, improved services and a more attractive business environment,” he added.

Municipal leaders expressed confidence that continued engagement with traders would reduce misunderstandings, encourage voluntary compliance with the relocation process and protect the interests of the business community during project implementation.

Under the UCMID Programme, Mityana Municipality has been allocated Shs34.9 billion, with approximately 70 percent of the funding earmarked for road construction and improvement works across the municipality.

According to the mayor, about Shs1.9 billion has also been allocated for administrative activities, including community sensitisation, resettlement programmes and other implementation-related activities required for the successful execution of the project.

The municipality says the programme will improve urban infrastructure, enhance mobility and create a more conducive environment for businesses and residents once completed.